Growing up, Donovan Mitchell loved watching the NBA Slam Dunk contest. Watching the likes of Vince Carter, Blake Griffin, Zach LaVine and Aaron Gordon, Mitchell always dreamed of being on the big stage.
Despite an impressive rookie season — winning numerous awards and the odds on favorite to win the Rookie of the Year — Mitchell didn’t get an invite to All-Star Weekend. However, after Gordon pulled out because of a rib injury, Mitchell not only got an invite, but used the initial snub as extra motivation as the Utah Jazz guard got his chance. His moment. His day.
"It's Over!"
Donovan Mitchell brings out the Vince Carter jersey, and takes a page out of Vince's book with the opposite way spinning 360 jam!
Mitchell beats Nance Jr. to win the #VerizonDunk Contest! pic.twitter.com/cNfnmygjMe
— NBA (@NBA) February 18, 2018
Mitchell took home the 2018 Slam Dunk Contest title after paying homage to Vince Carter by throwing down an impressive 360-degree spin dunk that the former slam dunk champion used to win the 2000 contest. Mitchell became just the second Jazzman to win the competition, joining Jeremy Evans who won in 2012.
“I wanted this so bad,” Mitchell said, smiling as he gripped the trophy. “This is one of my favorite events of All-Star weekend.”
Give him the Rookie of the Year award already. #UtahJazz #TakeNote
Utah’s Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) wins 2018 NBA Dunk Contest. Becomes just the second Jazzman to ever win the award (Jeremy Evans 2012). @utahjazz pic.twitter.com/lFVZwBlJYz
— Fan Insider (@FanInsider_) February 18, 2018
John Stockton recreates ‘The Shot’ that sent the Utah Jazz to the 1997 NBA Finals
Donovan Mitchell jumps over Kevin Hart for the 5⃣0⃣! #VerizonDunk pic.twitter.com/3t78BAn6u0
— NBA (@NBA) February 18, 2018
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