Dennis Smith Jr. showcases insane athleticism with casual 360 slam
Dennis Smith Jr. is a freak of nature. The man has effortless bunnies that would leave even the most harsh dunk contest judges with their jaws on the floor. That’s why he needs to be a part of the midseason tradition known as the NBA Dunk Contest.
Smith has built up quite the resume of dunks with a collection of highflying displays on a variety of sequences. Monday night, not only did the springy floor general help the Mavericks take down the Wizards in dominant fashion 98-75, but he also threw down the night’s most memorable jam.
Following a steal and pin point outlet pass by teammate Maxi Kleber, Smith took the ball down court and gave the home crowd something to cheer for as he casually rose up for the most laid back 360 dunk you’ve ever seen. He had plenty of room to add some extra theatrics to his first quarter mash, but maybe he’s holding back until he gets his All-Star weekend invite.
Whatever the case, it’s become apparent that Smith is much more than an athletic anomaly. As the season has progressed, the Mavericks have loosened his leash, and over his last ten games, the point guard is averaging 18 points, 5.5 dimes and nearly two steals per game. He’s nowhere near being a finished product, but with each passing game, those Russell Westbrook preseason comparisons are starting to look more accurate.
It’s always frustrating to be a fan of a losing organization, but with Smith, Harrison Barnes and a future top ten pick in their possession, it’s not long before winning basketball makes its way back to Dallas. I know it might feel like forever away, but if you’re a true Dallas sports fan, it’s an exciting time to follow the Mavericks.
