Two-time NBA Dunk Contest champion Mac McClung is returning to the Orlando Magic’s training camp this fall, likely setting the stage for another season with their G-League affiliate, the Osceola Magic. This marks McClung’s second consecutive year with the organization, told Sports Illustrated.
McClung agreed to an Exhibit 10 contract with the Magic, as first reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic and later confirmed by Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel. The Exhibit 10 contract allows McClung to participate in the team’s training camp, and if he doesn’t secure a spot on the NBA roster—which is unlikely—he will earn a bonus of up to $77,500 for joining the G-League team.
With 15 fully guaranteed contracts already on the roster, the Magic have no open spots. The only way for McClung to make the NBA team would be for the Magic to release one of their current players or for an injury to create an opportunity. Given the tight roster, McClung’s path to an NBA spot seems narrow for the upcoming season.
McClung, however, is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. Last season, he was named G-League MVP, averaging an impressive 25.7 points and 6.6 assists per game while shooting 36% from beyond the arc. Despite his standout performance, McClung was not called up to the NBA by the Magic or any other team.
The undrafted guard out of Texas Tech has spent the last few years navigating the fringes of the NBA. Since entering the league in 2021, McClung has had brief stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, and Philadelphia 76ers. He has also spent time with the Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic organizations but has only appeared in four NBA games, logging a total of 65 minutes on the court.
McClung’s journey showcases the challenges faced by talented players striving to break into the NBA, even after earning individual accolades. While his NBA prospects may be limited this season, his determination and success in the G-League suggest that he will continue to make waves, whether with the Osceola Magic or on a bigger stage in the future.
For now, McClung remains focused on his path, aiming to prove his worth once again in the Magic’s training camp.