In a surprising yet strategic preseason maneuver, the Chicago Bulls have signed and immediately waived guard Mac McClung, the electrifying three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest winner known for his jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics.

This sign-and-waive underscores the Bulls’ commitment to nurturing young talent amid roster constraints.

McClung, a 26-year-old undrafted free agent out of Texas Tech (by way of Georgetown), dazzled fans with his viral dunks, earning widespread acclaim. However, with the Bulls’ NBA roster finalized, this move cleverly routes him to their G League affiliate, the Windy City Bulls, without occupying a precious spot.

NBA insider Keith Smith explains that such preseason sign-and-waives are commonplace, allowing teams to secure players for the G League while offering lucrative incentives. These Exhibit 10 contracts include bonuses up to $85,300 for spending 60 days in the minors, providing financial security and continued development under the Bulls’ coaching.

Sign-and-waive transactions are very common in the NBA preseason. Teams do this to get the player to their G League team. The contracts these players sign regularly come with a “bonus” of up to $85,300 (for this season) if they spend 60 days with the G League team.

Good way to… https://t.co/w23vWCEHAm

https://twitter.com/KeithSmithNBA/status/1979332974891143669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

It’s an ideal way to invest in a high-upside athlete like McClung, whose 6-foot-2 frame belies explosive athleticism, averaging 25.7 points per game in last season’s G League stints.

For the Bulls, rebuilding around stars like Josh Giddey and Coby White, bolsters depth without long-term commitment. McClung gains stability, potentially earning an NBA call-up.

As the 2025-26 season tips off, watch for McClung’s dunks to light up the G League — proving this waiver was no farewell, but a launchpad.