Dec 13, 2014; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dunks during the first quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Giannis Antetokounmpo Slam Dunk Extraordinaire
Although the organization is likely still holding out hope that Brandon Knight can earn his ticket to the big event when the results of tomorrow’s coaches vote are revealed, the Milwaukee Bucks are assured at least one representative at the NBA’s All-Star Weekend thanks to Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Giannis will be the Bucks’ first representative in the Slam Dunk Contest since Ray Allen appeared in 1997 (although Brandon Jennings was only stopped by injury in 2011), and with a further announcement earlier today we now know he’ll also be a part of the Rising Stars challenge.
Rumors had been circulating for a number of days, but without confirmation from either Antetokounmpo or the NBA it seemed wise to remain on the side of caution until the news was made official.
That announcement was made by the NBA last night though, and now the excitement can begin for Bucks fans. Per the official release:
"A first-time champion will be crowned as three surging second-year players and a leading rookie will all make their debuts in the league’s signature above-the-rim showcase: the Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Zach LaVine, the Orlando Magic’s Victor Oladipoand the Brooklyn Nets’ Mason Plumlee."
As NBA.com’s Sekou Smith put it in his Hang Time column last night:
"Antetokounmpo, the extremely long and ridiculously athletic Milwaukee Bucks swingman, brings his own brand of excitement to a contest that is always in search of a new wrinkle."
What exactly will that wrinkle be though, and what has the Greek Freak got up his sleeve for New York City?
Let’s look to the past to try and find just what Giannis’ dunk attempts should comprise of, and how exactly he can end the night crowned as the NBA’s Slam Dunk King.
Next: Effortless Confidence