Many young NBA fans may be shocked to learn that Kenny Smith competed in numerous Slam Dunk Contests over his 10-year career. During an era littered with talented dunkers like Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Dee Brown and Harold Minor, the 6’3″ guard out of New York City was a regular at the contest competing in 1990, 1991 and 1993.
Now a member of TNT’s Inside the NBA crew alongside Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neil, Smith had the opportunity to reminisce with the guys about his younger days in the league. The crew was in Indianapolis for the All-Star Weekend when the topic of the Dunk Contest was brought up by Ernie Johnson. Smith spoke about finishing second in the 1990 event behind Dominique Wilkins stating that he was “robbed.” That prompted a comical response from his candid and outspoken colleague Charles Barkley.
“Please stop it. We’re still trying to figure out why you were in the Slam Dunk Contest,” joked Barkley.
Kenny Smith: “I got robbed by Dominique Wilkins!”
Charles Barkley: “Please stop. We’re still trying to figure out why you were in the Dunk Contest.” 🤣
(via @NBAonTNT)pic.twitter.com/7krsl669bQ
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 17, 2024
The comment drew laughter from both Johnson and O’Neil. It also got a smile out of Smith who had a witty response ready for Barkley.
“My bank account says that I should have been in it,” said Smith.
Smith never won the Dunk Contest but in 1993 was the first player to appear in both the three-point contest and slam dunk contest in the same day at the NBA All-Star Weekend.
Kenny Smith was a two-time NBA champion with the Houston Rockets. He played on six different NBA teams before retiring in the 1997 season. Known more for his vision and passing ability, some fans forget what Smith had could get above the rim as well.
