New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson and Minnesota Timberwolves rookie Anthony Edwards are among four players who turned down invitations to participate in the Slam Dunk competition at the All-Star Game, sources told Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes.
Williamson, Edwards, Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges, and Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown all reportedly declined requests from the league to compete.
Georgia product Edwards, who the T-Wolves chose first overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, likely would have participated in the Rising Stars game if the league hadn't canceled the contest.
Edwards has established a reputation as one of the league's most dynamic dunkers. One of the first-year guard's most notable curtain-raising efforts was a robust right-handed slam on Toronto Raptors forward Yuta Watanabe.
DUNK OF THE YEAR.
— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) February 20, 2021
ANTHONY EDWARDS. #SCTop10 pic.twitter.com/hmnhFvldF0
Like Edwards, Williamson is considered among the NBA's best dunkers. Despite reportedly declining the Slam Dunk invitation, the second-year pro will be at the March 7 event in Atlanta after he was named a Western Conference reserve last Tuesday.
Brown, who is not known for his aerial prowess, was chosen as an Eastern Conference reserve, marking his first All-Star Game selection.
Indiana Pacers rookie Cassius Stanley, Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons, and first-year New York Knicks high-flyer Obi Toppin have all reportedly agreed to compete in the Slam Dunk competition. The contest is scheduled to take place at halftime of the All-Star Game.
