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Reality may finally be setting in for former 76ers dunk sensation

Is it time for the next chapter?
Philadelphia 76ers guard Mac McClung (9) reacts in the Dunk Contest during the 2023 All Star Saturday Night at Vivint Arena.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Mac McClung (9) reacts in the Dunk Contest during the 2023 All Star Saturday Night at Vivint Arena. | USA TODAY Sports

Years after becoming an NBA sensation while donning a Philadelphia 76ers uniform at All-Star weekend, Mac McClung might be taking his talents beyond the Association.

According to hoops insider Chema de Lucas, McClung is currently negotiating a deal to potentially link with FIATC Girona in Spain.

For McClung, it would be his first move beyond the NBA since he became a pro. It's something that he's been putting on hold as he worked to carve out a long-term role at the NBA level, but the reality is becoming clear: The 27-year-old is running out of options beyond the teams that already gave him a shot.

Credit to McClung

Coming out of Texas Tech in 2021, McClung had plenty of buzz around his name for being an impressive dunker. He was a viral sensation before stepping foot on an NBA court. The Sixers weren't the first team to give him a shot, but they certainly benefited from his presence.

Amid a successful NBA G League run with the Delaware Blue Coats, McClung accepted an offer to participate in the Dunk Contest. The Sixers gave McClung a two-way deal prior. McClung then delivered the franchise its first Dunk Contest victory. He was the first participant since Andre Iguodala, who was snubbed in 2006.

At the time, McClung's fame reached new levels. He was recognized as a superstar dunker, but wanted to establish himself as a reliable role player at the NBA level. Going overseas wasn't a thought on his mind, and he remained motivated to stick in the NBA for the following two NBA seasons.

Since leaving the Sixers, McClung had runs with the Orlando Magic, Indiana Pacers, and the Chicago Bulls. Last year, he appeared in three games for the Pacers, producing averages of 6.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. When he got to Chicago, McClung played in eight games, averaging 6.0 points and 1.1 assists.

Outside of the three Slam Dunk Contest trophies, McClung has an impressive G League resume. He won a championship with the Sixers' affiliate in 2023. He also achieved MVP honors twice, along with being the scoring champion on two occasions and being named All-NBA G League First Team three times.

The NBA dream shouldn't be deemed over for McClung, but it's clear that he outgrew the NBA G League. If he finalizes a move to Spain, McClung would surely remain on the Association's radar, especially if he continues to dominate in overseas competition.

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