While contemporary NBA players have frequently overlooked participating in the iconic dunk contest, Kenny Smith made a noteworthy observation during his recent appearance on ‘The Stephen A. Smith Show. Smith highlighted Michael Jordan’s determination to show his peers and fans that he was the best at everything, leading him to participate in the dunk contest. ‘The Jet’ pointed out the stark contrast in attitude between MJ’s era and that of today’s players.

Kenny Smith on how social media would affect Michael Jordan - Basketball Network - Your daily dose of basketball

“One time we were at North Carolina, and we were talking about the Dunk contest with Michael, and he said, ‘I’m doing the Dunk Contest to let them know that I’m the best at everything,'” Kenny said. “He said, ‘I’m gonna enter the 3-point contest one day,’ and he actually did it. So wanted to show the world that he was the best at everything, and that’s why you play the game.”

Stephen A. Smith on who missed the opportunity to change the Dunk Contest

Speaking of the Dunk Contest, Stephen A. Smith expressed his belief that Anthony Edwards represents the league’s future, and since ‘Ant-Man’ missed an opportunity to inspire stars of his generation by not participating in the Dunk Contest. Kenny agreed with this sentiment, emphasizing the potential impact the former No. 1 pick could have had on encouraging his peers to follow in his footsteps.

“He didn’t participate. I thought he missed an opportunity… this is All-Stars, you’re surrounded by All-Stars, this is your opportunity to claim, ‘Yo this is a new era coming. I’m a part of. Ya’ll better watch out for me,'” Stephen A. said. “I thought he sort of passed on that opportunity to some degree.”