Shaq, TNT Sports Will Debut Dunkman League in Summer 2026 and Reveal Prize Money
Having crowned the best dunker after a 40-person tournament in December, TNT Sports and NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal are expanding the Dunkman concept into a full league.
The Dunkman league will showcase 24 elite dunkers and have them compete in four group-stage contests. The final winner will receive a grand prize of $500,000.
"These athletes are innovators and Dunkman is going to give them a global stage, real stakes, and a chance to build careers doing what they love," said O'Neal, who's serving as the league commissioner. "We are transforming dunking from a one-night contest to the fastest growing professional sport off two feet."
TNT Sports chief content officer Craig Barry also issued a statement:
"At TNT Sports, we aim to reach fans at the intersection of sports and culture, and the Dunkman league will allow us to showcase that convergence through the creativity and personalities of the best dunkers in the world. Partnering with Shaquille to build the first professional dunk league lets us create and amplify moments that excite our fans and extends through across our platforms."
Dunkman originated as a limited series culminating in a final battle between seven finalists in mid-December. Jordan Kilganon took home the title and the $200,000 prize.
The general competition will remain the same as a panel of expert judges choose each winner and loser.
The league will get underway this summer and be broadcast on TNT, TBS, truTV and HBO Max. More information about participants and event locations will arrive in the coming weeks.
