The NBA season will surge ahead after the All-Star break

The NBA season starts up again Thursday night. Here's what fans need to know about the contenders at the top of each conference. NBA season kicks off Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday night in New York City. NBA teams in the East, West and South Atlantic Atlantic Atlantic conferences will play in the NBA Finals.

Orlando Magic G Leagues star Mac McClung wins second Slam Dunk Contest title. McClung has only played in four NBA games. Orlando Magic star McClung won his second NBA Slam Dunk contest on Saturday night in Indianapolis. Orlando's McClung is a rookie in the NBA, but has only appeared in four G League games.

The NBA slam dunk contest is returning for the first time since 2017. Nate Robinson is the lone three-time winner of the event. The event will feature an NBA All-Star in the event for first time in the last two years. The contest will be held on Saturday night in New York.