Why did Shaedon Sharpe pull out of Slam Dunk Contest? Jericho Sims completes 4-man lineup at All-Star Saturday
Portland Trail Blazers rookie Shaedon Sharpe was initially reported as a participant in the 2023 Slam Dunk Contest. However, he pulled out of the competition and was replaced by Jericho Sims of the New York Knicks.
But why did Sharpe withdraw from the Slam Dunk Contest?
Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that the rookie wanted to focus on the second half of the season with the Blazers. The team is currently looking to finish the campaign strong and qualify for the postseason.
Sharpe's role has been limited in Portland. He has averaged just 7.9 points and 2.5 rebounds in 20.3 minutes per game. However, the Blazers recently acquired two more players in Matisse Thybulle and Cam Reddish, who will compete with Sharpe for minutes.
When Shaedon Sharpe's name was announced for the Slam Dunk Contest last month, there were some who thought that he'd be the favorite to win it. Sharpe has showcased his insane vertical this season with several highlight reel dunks for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Sharpe was even excited about accepting the NBA's invitation to join the competition. He admitted in an interview with Casey Holdahl of NBA.com that he's nervous about being in the contest, but was excited to prepare for it.
"I'd probably say I’m more nervous but excited as well," Sharpe said. "It's a great opportunity. I think they were really interested because they kept asking my agent and my coach. When they brought that info to me I'm like, 'Why not?'"
He added:
"I might just go off the top, see what I can do. I'm going to practice a little bit but I don’t know. Whatever comes to me, I'll do it."
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Jericho Sims completes 4-man Slam Dunk Contest lineup
Jericho Sims stepped up to replace Shaedon Sharpe in the 2023 Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Saturday.
Sims is a second-year big man for the New York Knicks, averaging 3.7 points and 4.9 rebounds this season. He's not a huge name, but has great hops based on his dunk highlights.
Sims is looking to win another Slam Dunk trophy for the Knicks following Obi Toppin's victory last year. However, the lineup for this year's competition is strong despite no big-name players being involved.
Kevin Martin Jr. has a famous dad, but his highlights this season usually involve a dunk or a black. Martin is a high-flyer who Jamal Crawford thinks will win on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Trey Murphy III has a surprising vertical for someone who is known for his 3-point shooting. Elsewhere, Mac McClung is looking to make history since he plays in the NBA G League.
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