Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. open to participating in Slam Dunk Contest
Miami Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. told Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald that he is open to participating in the Slam Dunk Contest this season at All-Star Weekend.
Jaquez previously competed in a slam dunk contest in high school in California, defeating Philadelphia 76ers guard KJ Martin and Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London in 2019. As part of one of his dunks, Jaquez jumped over two teammates to win the event.
The 22-year-old had the seventh-highest max vertical jump (39 inches) at the draft combine this year and the third-highest standing jump (34.5 inches). He has also already thrown down several highlight-reel dunks this season with the Heat.
He would welcome the chance to compete in the event.
“The dunk contest is something that everybody loves,” Jaquez said on Wednesday prior to playing Charlotte. “It’s a lot of fun. I’d definitely consider doing it, for sure.”
Jaquez was named the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for October and November. He is averaging 12.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists and one steal on 40.3% shooting from 3-point range in 24 games and is fourth in rookie scoring.
He has emerged as a key player for the Heat off the bench and has scored in double figures in 11 straight games, the longest streak by a rookie this season. He is averaging 17 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists on 50% shooting from 3-point range during that span.
Though Jaquez hasn’t been formally invited to compete in the event, the NBA typically asks rookies and other young players to participate. After expressing interest in doing it, Jaquez could be a name to monitor as the festivities approach on Feb. 17 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
