Wow, let me tell you, the 2022 NBA Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend in Cleveland was something else. This event has seen some iconic moments over the years, but this year's competition was fascinating for several reasons. First up, in terms of data, the contest featured four participants: Jalen Green, Obi Toppin, Juan Toscano-Anderson, and Cole Anthony. Each of them brought their A-game and, of course, unique styles to the contest.
So let's talk specifics, shall we? Jalen Green entered the contest with a lot of hype, given his impressive 48-inch vertical leap. Many fans had high expectations for him, especially since he's known for his speed and precision on the court. Unfortunately, despite his athleticism, some of his attempts didn’t pan out as expected. For instance, in one round, he took several tries to nail a dunk, clocking in around 95 seconds before finally succeeding. This delay cost him precious points with the judges.
Moving on to Obi Toppin, the fan-favorite entering from the New York Knicks. He had an impressive season averaging 9.0 points per game. Obi came in with the idea of showcasing not just dunks but creativity. He achieved this in his final dunk with an incredible between-the-legs dunk that had the crowd on their feet. This particular dunk earned him a score of 45 from the judges, pushing him closer to the title. Many feel he brought innovation and flair, reminiscent of past dunk legends like Vince Carter in 2000.
Now, let’s not overlook Juan Toscano-Anderson, a well-rounded player who’s known for his versatility with the Golden State Warriors. His first-round dunk featured a no-look finish, which is a rare move even by Slam Dunk Contest standards. While his performance was solid, it wasn’t enough to secure him the top spot. For example, his windmill dunk scored him 44 points, putting him slightly behind Toppin.
And then we have Cole Anthony, who made an unforgettable entrance wearing Timberland boots for his first dunk attempt. This choice of footwear definitely added to the entertainment value of the event. Cole's strength and vertical leap of 40 inches were impressive, but his execution faltered under pressure. For instance, he missed several attempts which he later admitted affected his momentum. He finished with scores that reflected his effort but lacked the finish needed to win.
If you’re wondering who took home the prize, the title went to Obi Toppin. His consistency and showmanship set him apart. According to a nba slam dunk contest 2022 report, his final round's between-the-legs dunk earned him 50 points, sealing the win. The judges—Dominique Wilkins, David Robinson, Isiah Thomas, Clyde Drexler, and Julius Erving—collectively agreed that his blend of creativity and execution deserved the top honor.
Fans and analysts alike had their thoughts. For instance, ESPN’s analysis noted that while the overall scores this year were lower compared to historical averages, the degree of difficulty and creativity had certainly increased. Just look at the average dunk scores; in some prior years, dunks averaging around 45 points were not as common.
From a technical perspective, the carbon fiber rims used in the contest can handle up to 750 pounds of force, highlighting the sheer athleticism required to make these dunks. Also, the choice of using Spalding NBA Regulation Basketballs, measuring 29.5 inches in circumference and weighing about 22 ounces, ensures uniformity and consistency, crucial for such a high-stakes competition.
Talking to fans after the contest, many echoed the sentiment that this year’s dunk contest brought fresh energy. Whether it was Jalen Green’s enormous potential, Obi Toppin’s flair, Juan Toscano-Anderson’s finesse, or Cole Anthony’s bold style, the event proved once again why it remains a fan favorite during All-Star Weekend. If you missed it, definitely check out the highlights—you won’t be disappointed!