dunking

Dunking refers to the act of submerging something in a liquid, or, in sports, a dramatic scoring move in basketball. The term is most often used to describe a slam dunk, in which a player jumps and forces the ball through the rim from above. In basketball, dunks are valued for power, elevation, and a decisive finishing touch at the rim.

In the on-court move, a player typically gathers momentum, climbs above the defender, and drives the ball downward through the hoop. Dunks can be performed with one hand or two, and come in many variants such as the reverse dunk or an alley-oop finish. A successful dunk scores two points and is a highlight element of games and showcases.

Notable dunkers have shaped the sport’s culture. The slam dunk contest at basketball All-Star events highlights extreme leaping and creativity, with famous performers including Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Vince Carter, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James, among others.

Outside of sports, dunking describes submerging foods in liquids, such as cookies in milk or bread in tea or soup. It is also used in attractions like dunk tanks and in everyday language to describe a rapid, decisive action.

Regulation and safety considerations have influenced dunking. Some leagues have restricted or regulated dunking in the past, and contemporary play generally allows it, though injuries from awkward landings or collisions can occur. The term also appears in broader culture as a metaphor for success or dominance.