The Albany Gazette - New NBA dunk contest champ assured and shooting stars return

San Antonio rookie forward Carter Bryant, Miami forward Keshad Johnson and Orlando rookie guard Jase Richardson -- the son of 2002 and 2003 Slam Dunk champion Jason Richardson -- will join center Hayes for the February 14 event at the home of the Los Angeles Clippers.

The two-round format will feature judges scoring each dunk. A combined two-dunk score will decide which two of the four players advance to the final round, with combined scores from two more dunks determining a champion.

Hayes, a 7-footer (2.13m), is in his seventh NBA campaign and third with the Lakers. He was suspended for a game earlier this month for pushing a Washington Wizards mascot.

The league also announced a return to All-Star festivities of the Shooting Stars team skills competition to the lineup after last being contested in 2015.

Rather than teaming a Women's NBA standout with an active player and retired star, the timed shooting event will include two current NBA players and a retired legend.

This year's four trios include Team Knicks, featuring New York stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns with former Knicks standout Allan Houston.

Team All-Star includes Toronto swingman Scottie Barnes, center Chet Holmgren of reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City and retired three-time NBA All-Star Richard Hamilton.

Team Harper includes three family members -- five-time NBA champion Ron Harper Sr. and sons Ron Harper Jr. of Boston and Dylan Harper of San Antonio.

The last squad includes All-Star Jalen Johnson of Atlanta, Charlotte's Kon Knueppel and retired 14-year NBA player Corey Maggette.

(Y.Harris--TAG)