Shock Move: Pacers Cut Dunk Sensation Mac McClung Just Days After Signing

Hardly had the ink dried on Mac McClung’s first-ever full NBA contract with the Indiana Pacers before the unexpected happened—he was released. Yep, the three-time dunk contest maestro found himself on the outside looking in, just ten days after the Pacers handed him a multiyear deal. It’s a harsh reminder of how fleeting moments can be in this league, especially for a player like McClung who’s navigated a winding path through five different NBA franchises, mostly riding the wave of training camp and two-way contracts until now. Indiana brought him in to fill a void carved out by a slew of injuries, including the season-ending Achilles damage to Tyrese Haliburton and setbacks to guards Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell. Despite showcasing glimpses of his talent during three game appearances, all tough losses, McClung’s stint was cut short after limited minutes in his final outing — a nail-biting loss to the Bucks. His story stirs a mix of admiration and bittersweetness; from undrafted hopeful, to dunk champion, and then the heartbreaking reality of having to start anew—all in under a fortnight. For someone who’s poured five years chasing this dream, it’s a poignant crossroads. LEARN MORE