In an unexpected yet bold claim, a pair of New York Knicks players have stirred up conversation in the basketball world by suggesting that an 8-time NBA All-Star could outshine basketball legends LeBron James and Kobe Bryant in a slam dunk contest.
Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Knicks teammates Julius Randle and RJ Barrett discussed the idea of an ideal dunk contest lineup, and their hot take immediately caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Both players, known for their candid personalities and passion for the game, agreed that a certain 8-time All-Star—whose identity they declined to reveal—would “absolutely steal the show” in a dunk-off against two of the game’s most iconic dunkers.
“I mean, we’re talking about someone who’s got crazy bounce, creativity, and power,” Randle said. “I love LeBron, I love Kobe, but this guy’s got some dunks that would shock you—he’s on a different level.”
Barrett, who has had a front-row seat to many jaw-dropping in-game dunks by Randle and others, added, “LeBron and Kobe had their time, but this guy would give them a run for their money. He can fly, no question about it.”
While neither Randle nor Barrett explicitly named the player, their comments sparked widespread speculation. The 8-time All-Star in question is likely someone known for his electrifying in-game dunks—perhaps a player who doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves for his aerial ability.
James, a four-time NBA champion and known for his monstrous dunks throughout his career, has participated in various highlight-reel dunks but has never competed in an official dunk contest. Bryant, the late Lakers legend, dominated the dunk contest early in his career, famously winning the 1997 contest at just 18 years old.
However, both players’ legacy-defining dunks pale in comparison to the level of creativity and power some modern NBA stars have brought to the court, with players like Zion Williamson, Ja Morant, and even Aaron Gordon routinely pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the air.
While the possibility of seeing LeBron or Kobe face off in a dunk contest remains a tantalizing thought for many fans, the Knicks duo’s comments have sparked new conversations about which current or former player could rival or surpass their legendary dunks.
If this mystery 8-time All-Star were ever to enter a dunk contest, one thing is clear: the competition would be fierce.
As the NBA season continues and anticipation builds for future dunk contests, fans will undoubtedly be left wondering: who exactly does Randle and Barrett believe could dethrone two of the most electrifying dunkers the game has ever seen?
Until then, one thing is for sure—this debate will keep basketball fans buzzing.
