Mat Ishbia Wants All Star Prize Money, Cuban Tried

Merlin sees Phoenix governor Mat Ishbia offering $1 million prizes for the 2027 Slam Dunk and 3-Point contests and pledging matching charity gifts to lure stars. Dallas governor Mark Cuban says he "offered the same thing years ago" and was told it would be "tampering." League and union officials warn the idea "would run into some red tape" and it would not fit the existing bonus structure. Under the current CBA, dunk contestants get at least $20,000 with the winner taking $100,000, while 3-Point participants get at least $10,000 and the champion $60,000. Merlin senses noble intent and real hurdles. Owners can wave dollars, but the NBPA and league rules are the guardians at the gate. A likely path forward is creative framing, charity hooks, or negotiated exceptions rather than a straight payout as proposed.