Houston Rockets rookie Cam Whitmore, selected as the 20th pick in last summer’s draft, has opted out of participating in this year’s NBA Dunk Contest despite being approached twice by the league.
The 19-year-old forward, known for his athleticism, declined the invitation, emphasizing that he doesn’t currently view himself as a dunk specialist.
In a statement to Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle, Whitmore explained his decision, stating, “I don’t, I really don’t, nothing that takes technique and plus, with the flashiness added into that.”
Despite turning down the Dunk Contest for now, Whitmore hasn’t ruled out the possibility of showcasing his dunking skills in the future. He expressed a willingness to consider participating in the event once he has established himself in the league.
“I got asked twice for the dunk contest, and I said ‘no.’ I’m waiting until the time comes. I don’t see myself as a dunker. I don’t have anything up my sleeve right now. But in year two, year three, when I establish myself as somebody in this league, yeah, I’ll do it,” Whitmore revealed.
