SAN ANTONIO, 15 February 2026 – San Antonio Spurs rookie forward Carter Bryant has emerged as the focal point of NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. Following a victory in the Rising Stars competition on Friday, Bryant enters today as the betting favourite to claim the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest trophy.
All-Star Weekend Performance
Bryant’s weekend began with a successful stint in the Rising Stars event, where he competed for “Team Vince.” Despite strong performances from teammates Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper, Bryant helped lead his squad to victory, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most explosive young talents.
As of 15 February 2026, Bryant is listed as the +180 favourite to win the Slam Dunk Contest. He faces a four-man field that includes Jaxson Hayes (Lakers), Keshad Johnson (Heat), and Jase Richardson. Analysts point to Bryant’s “explosive” verticality and his recent form—including a career-high 16-point performance against the Lakers just days ago—as evidence of his readiness for the big stage.
Player Profile and Professional Background
Selected 14th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, Bryant transitioned to the professional ranks after a standout freshman season with the Arizona Wildcats. Known for his defensive versatility and athleticism, he has quickly become a key developmental piece for the Spurs’ wing rotation.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Carter Bryant |
| Date of Birth | 26 November 2005 |
| Hometown | Riverside, California |
| Current Team | San Antonio Spurs |
| Jersey Number | #11 |
| Position | Small Forward / Power Forward |
| Height / Weight | 6’6″ (198 cm) / 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| College | University of Arizona |
| Draft Status | 2025 Round 1, Pick 14 |
Recent Form and Impact
While his season averages sit at 2.8 points and 1.8 rebounds per game across 40 appearances, Bryant has shown flashes of elite potential in the lead-up to the All-Star break. On Tuesday, 10 February 2026, he recorded a career-high 16 points against the Los Angeles Lakers, shooting 50% from the field and adding three three-pointers.
Public insight from the Spurs camp suggests Bryant is being groomed as the team’s next defensive anchor on the wing. Bryant has cited former Spurs legend Kawhi Leonard as a primary influence on his playing style, focusing on a “defence-first” mentality that has endeared him to the San Antonio coaching staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Carter Bryant’s odds for the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest?
As of Sunday, 15 February 2026, Carter Bryant is the betting favourite with +180 odds to win the contest.
Where did Carter Bryant play college basketball?
Bryant played for the Arizona Wildcats, where he appeared in all 37 games of his collegiate season before declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft.
What was Carter Bryant’s high school career like?
A native of Riverside, California, Bryant attended Corona Centennial High School. He was a McDonald’s All-American and was named the Pacific Coast Conference MVP during his junior year after averaging 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds.
How has Bryant performed in his rookie NBA season?
Bryant has played in 40 games for the San Antonio Spurs. While his season averages are modest, he recently set a career-high with 16 points and was a member of the winning team in the 2026 Rising Stars competition.