Warriors’ Juan Toscano-Anderson to participate in Slam Dunk Contest

May 3, 2021; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Juan Toscano-Anderson (95) reacts to a three point basket and a time out called against New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
May 3, 2021; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Juan Toscano-Anderson (95) reacts to a three point basket and a time out called against New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

The Golden State Warriors were already going to be well-represented in the league’s All-Star weekend with Andrew Wiggins and Stephen Curry dubbed as Western Conference starters, but now they have another piece to add to their ever-growing puzzle.

The addition of high-flying Juan Toscano-Anderson as a participant in the Slam Dunk contest will give Warriors fans an activity to cheer on one of their own in. The Warriors have at least two All-Star starters and will likely see Draymond Green also nominated to the game as well.

Golden State Warriors’ 6-foot-6 forward Juan Toscano-Anderson will reportedly compete in the 2022 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.

JTA will be competing against Obi Toppin from the Knicks, Cole Anthony from the Magic, and lastly Jalen Green from the Rockets. There’s no denying that the Warriors’ backup small forward won’t be favorited in the event.

The favorite will more than likely be Toppin with Green following him.

That said, Kendra Andrews confirmed that JTA will indeed be participating.

So far this season, JTA is averaging 4.6 points per game, shooting 50% from the field. His three-point shooting is what has really taken a hit as he was nailing over 40% of his attempts from deep last season and is under 28% this year.

Thankfully, that has no impact on his leaping. What those taking a deep dive into his ability to win the Slam Dunk Contest will be his dunks, which he has 20 of this season. He had 26 all of last season, so he’s off to a decent start.

The pass-first Draymond Green certainly helps make those possible, and we’ll see if JTA’s leaping is as good as it seems in the coming weeks.

That said, while JTA’s numbers are down due to the team’s increased ability to contend and heightened depth, many of his numbers are up per 36 minutes which is encouraging for his long-term future with the team.

Nonetheless, JTA will hopefully put on a show for fans on Saturday, February 19, 2022.