Overview
- On The Pat McAfee Show, the Phoenix Suns owner pledged $1 million to the 2027 dunk and 3-point contest winners plus $1 million to charity for each event.
- NBA league office and players’ union officials told ESPN the proposed payouts do not conform to the existing bonus structure and would need to be collectively bargained.
- ESPN reported that Ishbia did not consult the league before announcing the pledge.
- The current CBA sets far smaller prizes—about $100,000 for the dunk champion and $60,000 for the 3-point winner—with guaranteed participation stipends.
- Phoenix is scheduled to host All-Star Weekend on Feb. 19–21, 2027, and prior owner efforts to boost incentives, including a similar push by Mark Cuban, were rejected as the dunk contest continues to struggle to attract current All-Stars.