NBA stars Zion Williamson (The New Orleans Pelicans), Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics), Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks), and Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic) are just a few of the many artists who are helping to keep a 1990s tradition alive. The explosion of the And 1 Mixtape continues to influence the masses. Introductory videos have become commonplace in recruiting circuits. Brands could be created on CapCut or iMovie.
Williamson has already spoken about Kevin Durant’s Trashy Talk this summer. The Duke alum also had the most confident response when this Nike-equipped quartet have made their choice for the best mixtape of all time during a recent Overtime media tour.
“I would definitely say myself,” Williamson laughed. “But you have to factor in the timing of the mixtape and the impact it had. So I would say John Wall.”
Timing and impact. The debates over the greatest player of all time (GOAT) will go on forever. The new generation is capable of discovering George Gervin just as much as Michael Jordan. Their writing skills are much more refined, however, which is why this question brought a smile to everyone’s face at a recent media session.
Tatum also said Wall should be on the short list.
“From my personal experience growing up and what had the biggest impact on me,” Tatum responded, “it would be John Wall or Seventh Woods.”
“I used to wake up and watch mixtapes every morning before school,” Banchero said. “Aquille Carr, John Wall, Andrew Wiggins, Zion. Those guys were all Internet sensations in high school.”
Doncic wasn’t as dedicated to following the competition.
“I’ve watched a few, but not a lot,” Doncic shrugged. “So… (Derrick) Rose.”
Highlights of Williamson’s senior year at Spartanburg Day School include: has been seen by millions of people. Doncic has definitely seen this one at least once.
Zion Williamson’s dunk contest teases Pelicans fans
Williamson’s journey from high school phenom to NBA superstar has been an electrifying basketball ride. Those high school slams were nothing short of spectacular. One of the key elements that catapulted him into the limelight was those displays of incredible athleticism and jaw-dropping dunks. Williamson combines mid-air jumps with a dominance not seen since Shaq.
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These mixtapes not only showcased Williamson’s talents, but also cemented his status as a basketball legend before he ever stepped foot on an NBA court. The latest milestone in the highlight cycle is the NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
Williamson teased fans last springbreaking down the exact situation that would lead him to bring some star power to the dunk contest.
“I have to do my part and play in the All-Star Game,” Williamson said. “If I play in the All-Star Game, I’ll play in the dunk contest. If I don’t play in the All-Star Game, I won’t do it.”
The 24-year-old was named an All-Star for the first time in 2021 and again in 2024 but was unavailable due to a hamstring injury. Williamson averaged 22.9 points and 5.8 rebounds last season and is expected to do the same now. Dejounte Murray sets up the attack.
Will Williamson actually participate in the NBA dunk contest? Pelicans fans will have to wait until next February to find out.
