Basketball superstar LeBron James has expressed regret over never joining the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in his 11-year league career.
According to SB Nation, during the All-Star weekend, former teammate Dwayne Wade asked the phenom about the event and this is what James had to say (courtesy of Pro Basketball Talk):
"It's been some years where I said I was going to do it and didn't do it. And then actually watching the dunk contest, I was mad at myself, because I believe it would have been great.
Now, at this point, I'm over the hill now. You ain't going to see my no time soon. It's over with."
The 30-year-old Cleveland Cavaliers forward has been hailed as one of the most agile yet powerful players to enter the league. At 6'8" with a frame that carries 250-pounds, James is able to attack the basket and pulverize the rim with effortless grace.
In 2003, when James entered the league as the No. 1 overall pick, he's become one of the most idolized, recognized and accomplished players. With two titles, four MVP awards as well as being part of Team USA in the Olympics, fans have been dying to see James light up the Dunk Contest.
While James won't be appearing this year, one can hope that within this year, he'll change his mind and join the 2016 contest. While he may be 31 next year, still being one of the most versatile and athletic players currently in the league, James definitely has the hops to kick it with the rest of the NBA players.
In 2012, while he has thought about entering several times, James told Fox Sports Florida that he'd never participate.
"'No,' said James, 28 at the time, when his entry was discussed. "It's over with. I'm getting too old for that. ... There were times when I wanted to do it. But I came into All-Star Weekend a few times banged up and I didn't want to risk further injury."
Fanatix recalled how NBA legend Magic Johnson allegedly offer $1 million to join the content but James apparently never responded.
During this year's Dunk Competition, Minnesota Timberwolves point-guard Zach LaVine took home the title and won the 2015 Sprite Slam Dunk Contest.
"I just wanted to come out with a bang," said LaVine (via Yahoo!) after winning the competition. "I tried to get 50 on every dunk [...] I wanted to show everybody what I got."
Do you want James to join next year's Slam Dunk Contest? See him in action below:
