As one of the main attractions during NBA All-Star Weekend, the Slam Dunk Contest has seen many transformations in its 30-year history. One of the few constants has been contestants breaking out their finest footwear for the event. The old adage goes, “If you look good, you play good,” and it’s no coincidence that some of the best dunkers in the competition’s history wore rare pairs and some of the hottest sneakers on the market.
From Cedric Ceballos wrapping a blindfold around his eyes in ’92, to Harold Miner earning the “Baby Jordan” moniker in ’93, to Brent Barry taking off from the free-throw line in ’96, to Nate Robinson winning back-to-back contests in ’09 and ’10, Nikes have been on-feet during some of the most iconic dunks and performances in the contest. So as the crowds anticipate what kicks will appear on the Zoom City court this year, let’s take a quick look back.