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Memphis Grizzlies rookie Ja Morant will reportedly not participate in the Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend next month in Chicago, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.
The second-overall pick was invited by the NBA to compete in the annual event set to take place on Saturday, Feb. 15. Morant previously told Yahoo Sports earlier this month that he is mulling over the offer but had not yet settled on a decision.
After previously suffering back spasms, Morant will pass on the event in order to maintain good health during the second half of the season. Led by Morant, the Grizzlies have won six straight games and are eighth in the Western Conference.
Morant hasn’t ruled out participating in future Slam Dunk Contests.
The priority for Morant is staying healthy this season as the Grizzlies have been cautious with him. The team was said to be fully supportive of his decision if he were to participate in the event but Morant will apparently skip it this year.
Morant has thrown down a number of high-flying dunks this season and has already posterized a few players. He nearly had the dunk of the year last month over Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love. Morant has turned into a walking highlight-reel and has become must-watch TV.
While Morant will pass on the event, Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard has reportedly agreed to participate in the Slam Dunk Contest after previously winning in 2008. Utah Jazz guard Rayjon Tucker also recently inquired about competing, as well.
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