Memphis Grizzlies rookie Ja Morant is reportedly considering participating in the Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend next month in Chicago, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.
The second-overall pick has been invited by the NBA to compete in the annual event set to take place on Saturday, Feb. 15. Morant told Yahoo Sports that he is thinking about the offer but has not yet made an official decision.
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.
Ja Morant was this close to breaking Twitter:
(via @SportsCenter)pic.twitter.com/GMyjF5uRrX
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) December 21, 2019
While Morant is mulling over the offer, the rookie may not be a lock to participate. He has already dealt with back spasms following a collision with a courtside camera operator and the team has been cautious with him so far this season.
The priority for Morant is staying healthy this season and would be the reason why he wouldn’t participate. If Morant were to compete, though, the event would become must-watch as he has been electrifying this season in the open floor.
While Morant is undecided, 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.
Morant is averaging 17.6 points, 6.6 assists and 3.2 rebounds in 31 games played this season. He leads all rookies in scoring, field goals made and assists.
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