ZEROBASEONE’s Slam Dunk is the group’s pre-release single to hold fans over until their full album NEVER SAY NEVER drops September 1 at 6PM KST / 5AM EDT.
It’s also a preview into a new era. The group’s youthful concept is still front and center. This time, it’s wrapped in a basketball metaphor that feels classic.
A New Take on the Youth Concept
At its core, ZEROBASEONE has always been about youth. Slam Dunk sets itself apart from previous releases by incorporating a little edge to the group’s sound. The fusion of EDM and hip-hop gives the track a frantic, high-adrenaline vibe. The lyrics use basketball as a metaphor for pushing toward your goals while knocking down whatever obstacles come your way.
““I will never ever miss a shot (Ooh)
Without a win, it don’t mean a lot V’s up (V’s up)
Watch me ceremony, ain’t falling down listen up
Keep in mind, keep in mind, G-O-A-T, end the game”
“Slam dunk, cut, pass, dribble fast, no-look
Left hand layup, no rules
Higher take flight, coming through
Dribblin’ down, dribblin’ down
Slam dunk, show it off, how we play hoop
Backboards, shatterin’, I’m gonna shoot
Heads up, look at us, how we break the rules
Break the rules (Slam dunk)”
Critics have pointed out that the chorus leans heavily on shout-style vocals rather than melody. However, the song captures the chaos and the thrill of landing that slam dunk. The music video leans into this symbolism with style. The members are seen dribbling, dunking, and scoring on the court as they play against another team.
What Makes The Basketball Metaphor Work
A slam dunk is the kind of moment that says, “I did that. I owned it.” ZEROBASEONE does a good job of expressing the ambition and confidence needed to go all in. Whether it’s passing an exam or taking a personal risk, Slam Dunk encourages listeners to move with boldness and intent.
In both Korean pop culture and for fans around the world, basketball often represents teamwork and never giving up. There’s a sense of joy of finally seeing the scoreboard reflect all your hard work. This aligns with ZEROBASEONE’s concept of chasing dreams and preserving no matter what happens.
Instead of sticking to polished coming-of-age tropes, they’re leaning into the messiness of youth. The effort, the self-doubt, the adrenaline and the rules you need to break in the process.
Slam Dunk is a strong setup for the group’s first full-length album. It’s a fun, summer song with a message that anyone can resonate with. If this is just the teaser, hopefully the rest of the album will keep that bold and dynamic energy.
