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The NBA heard complaints about the yearly slam dunk contest as a prop-laden event, with little on the line. While bragging rights will always be the primary objective, this year a new element is being added with the addition of a East vs. West element to Saturday night's event.
Unlike previous years, 2013 will boast a field of six: three from the Eastern conference, and three from the West. It's a more varied field, with a greater chance for host of different dunks. Like previous years, former stars will be judging the initial rounds, with a fan vote deciding the winner in the victory round.
The Eastern conference is headlined by Gerald Green of the Indiana Pacers. It's been six years since Green was the 2007 Slam Dunk champion -- winning as a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves, he sealed victory with a soaring dunk that included blowing out a candle atop a cupcake. He is joined in the East by rookie Terrence Ross of the Toronto Raptors, and the New York Knicks' James White.
Meanwhile the Western conference boasts the 2012 champion. Jeremy Evans won with a dunk that entailed catching two ball mid-flight, and jumping over teammate Gordon Hayward. The rest of the West is rounded out with Eric Bledsoe of the Los Angeles Clippers, and Denver Nuggets' big man Kenneth Faried.
Where: Toyota Center, Houston, TX
When: Saturday, February 16th, 8:30 p.m. ET
TV: TNT