MANILA, Philippines – Basketball icon Dominique Wilkins gives some important advice for those who want to compete in the Slam Dunk Contest. The NBA Slam Dunk Contest, which was once the highlight of the NBA All-Star festivities, has somewhat lost its luster in recent years. Wilkins, a two-time Slam Dunk champion known as the “Human Highlight Film,” thinks the game needs more creative and risk-taking dunkers.

The 63-year-old Wilkins underlined the value of brave dunkers during an NBA Cares kids’ clinic conducted at Mandaluyong’s Community Court. He made the point that competitors shouldn’t be frightened to lose. He claims that this is the crucial component that has been absent from recent Slam Dunk Contests.

In addition to his incredible dunks, Wilkins had a 17-year Hall of Fame career that included two seasons in the EuroLeague. He was chosen for the All-NBA squad seven times, won the scoring title once, and was an NBA All-Star nine times. Throughout his NBA career, Wilkins averaged a respectable 24.8 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.

The 6-foot-8 forward, who is a part of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, highlighted that the Slam Dunk Contest is mostly for the spectators. For the benefit of both the audience and the competitors, he emphasized the significance of motivation and the willingness to take part in the competition. The Atlanta Hawks have retired Wilkins’ No. 21 jersey, and he is currently the organization’s vice president.

When Mac McClung, a player with the Philadelphia 76ers, took the stage, the Slam Dunk Contest experienced a comeback. His dynamic performance gave the competition fresh life, making it one of the highlights of the 23rd All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City this past February.

In conclusion, Dominique Wilkins’ counsel to would-be Slam Dunk Contest competitors emphasizes the need for fearless dunkers eager to take chances and thrill the crowd. Wilkins’ opinions carry a lot of weight given his extensive NBA career and legendary dunks, and they offer insightful advice for the continuation of this cherished basketball tradition.