In a YouTube video from April 2024, I sat down with my friend and fellow dunker, Hunter Castona, to answer some questions we got from people on Instagram and YouTube. He made the trip to my place for a dunk session—which we did later that day—but we also had a few hours beforehand to film some content, including this Q&A.
We covered a bunch of topics, from how we got started, to our favorite dunks, to training habits and goals. Here’s a recap of the most interesting questions and what we had to say.
1. When Did You First Get Into Jumping and Dunking?
This was the first question we hit. For me, it all started as a kid watching Michael Jordan highlights. I’d always played basketball, but something about seeing him dunk got me hooked. I started messing around on low rims with a mini ball, and eventually dunking became the thing I cared most about.
Hunter’s story is a little different. He grew up playing basketball too, but didn’t take dunking seriously until after high school. His first time at Dunk Camp in 2022 was what really got him locked in. That experience made him realize this was something he could be great at—and that it was worth pursuing hard.
2. Do You Think You’ll Be a Pro Dunker Long-Term?
We both want to go as far as possible with dunking. Whether or not that turns into a full-time job is another story. It’s still a small space, and even though it’s growing, it’s tough to make a living off just dunking.
That said, I’m also focusing on digital marketing and content—things that tie into building a personal brand and creating value beyond just jumping. Hunter’s on the same path in his own way. He’s an insanely talented photographer based in Wisconsin. You can check out his stuff on Instagram @Cast.Captures—well worth a look
3. How Often Do You Train?
My setup is pretty structured. I train six days a week with a mix of lifting and dunking. Some weeks have one or two dunk-specific days, depending on what I’m prepping for. I don’t have to think too much about the programming though—Jordan Kilganon, Tom Barnes, and Austen Young handle that for me through JumpMaster X. I just show up and get it done.
Hunter’s schedule is similar. He trains six days a week and dunks once a week. But even on rest days, we are both usually doing something light—mobility, hand speed work, isometrics, etc.
4. What Are the Hardest Dunks in Your Opinion?
For me, the 360 Kamikaze and 360 Lost and Found are right up there. The timing and body control you need for those is no joke. We also talked about the Reverse 360 Hide-and-Seek, which is another one that’s just wild.
Hunter brought up the 720 dunk and the free throw line dunk, which are both super tough too. Anything that involves multiple rotations or transfers in the air is just next level
5. Favorite Dunks to Watch and Perform?
I’ve always looked up to Jordan Kilganon for how creative he is. As far as what I enjoyed doing myself at the time of recording, I was big on Eastbays, windmills, and lately had been hitting reverse pumps and cuff windmills, which I had just unlocked a few months prior.
Hunter loves Underboths and Eastbays. He also said he really likes watching raw dunk session footage—the kind that shows all the misses and attempts. Seeing the whole process, not just the clean edited version, makes it feel more real and relatable.
6. How Do You Stay Motivated to Train?
This one’s important. For me, it really comes down to doing it because I love it. It’s not about external stuff like views or attention—it’s just something I genuinely enjoy. But motivation comes and goes, so discipline matters way more. You’ve got to stick to the plan, even when you’re not feeling it.
Hunter said something similar. He talked about how having a strong support system makes a huge difference. Whether it’s a training partner or just people in your corner, it helps you stay locked in when things get tough.
7. What Are Your Lifting Goals?
Right now I’m working on increasing my numbers in the gym. Some of my goals include a 245 power clean, 225 bench, and around a 375–400 deadlift.
Hunter’s aiming for similar numbers—a 250 power clean and a 315 back squat. We’ve both noticed how much strength work carries over into actual jump performance.
8. Best Shoes for Dunking?
We both agreed that shoes make a difference. At the time, my favorite was the Way of Wade 10, but now I’d say the Li-Ning Gamma 1s are the best I’ve ever worn. They’re super light, have great traction, and just feel made for dunking. The Way of Wade All City 12s are also solid and more budget-friendly.
Hunter liked the Wade 10s too, though I think his opinions have shifted since then. Everyone has their preferences, but for both of us, it’s all about traction, weight, and fit.
9. What Were Your Goals for the Dunk Session?
We wrapped up the Q&A by talking about the session we had planned for later that day. I wanted to land an Underboth, and an Eastbay or Windmill off the backboard—and since then, I’ve hit all three.
Hunter was going for a 360 reverse Eastbay, a Honeydip, and a 360 behind the back. We were both hyped for that session and looking to push our limits.
Final Thoughts
This Q&A was a good reminder of why we love doing this. If you’re into dunking or just starting out, stay consistent, train smart, and don’t get discouraged when it takes time. Everyone has off days. Everyone has setbacks.
Thanks for reading and being part of this journey.
About The Author
