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Adam Zagoria covers basketball at all levels. He is the author of two books and an award-winning journalist whose articles have appeared in ESPN The Magazine, SLAM, Sheridan Hoops, Sports Illustrated, Basketball Times and in newspapers nationwide.
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Thursday / December 12.
  • When Derrick Jones’ named was first linked to the Slam Dunk Contest, some national reporters didn’t even know who he was.

    Now that it’s official that the former UNLV wing from Archbishop Carroll (Pa.) will compete against Aaron Gordon, DeAndre Jordan and Glenn Robinson III, Jones could end up taking home the title.

    Nicknamed “Airplane Mode” for his leaping ability, Jones has split time this season between the Suns and their NBA Development League affiliate, the Northern Arizona Suns.  The 6-7 rookie forward will become the first player to compete in the NBA Slam Dunk competition and play in the NBA D-League in the same season.

    In 2014, Jones won the dunk contest at the Under Armour Elite 24 Game and even impressed Dominique Wilkins with his dunking exploits.

    In 2015, Jones pulled out a truly special slam, jumping over four players, including 7-footer Josh Sharma, to win the Dunk Contest at the Mary Kline Classic.

    “I did it before so I just said I’m going to do it again,” Jones said that night.

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