NBA Slam Dunk Contest 2022: Juan Toscano-Anderson Wants Dunk Crown Amid Championship Aspirations

Mexican-American star Juan Toscano-Anderson is keeping his eyes on the prize amid the Golden State Warriors' championship bid this 2021-22 season. However, with his participation in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest nearing, he couldn't help but get excited about it.

Toscano-Anderson will be facing Houston Rockets rookie Jalen Green, Orlando Magic rising star Cole Anthony and New York Knicks forward Obi Toppin in the highly anticipated affair.

While the Warriors forward is not really a big favorite to win the event-considering the lack of success big men had when joining the contest for high-flyers and acrobatic dunkers-JTA is ready to go all-out to break that curse.

"I really want to win a championship this year. That's the ultimate goal, but to win a slam dunk contest and add that to my resume of life, and things that I've accomplished. I'll be extremely happy," Toscano-Anderson said, per Mark Haynes of ClutchPoints.

Juan Toscano-Anderson's Dunk Dreams

When the Warriors' key cog was invited for the Dunk Contest, he didn't hesitate in saying yes. After all, as an East Oakland kid who grew up watching Jason Richardson, it's a dream come true to be in the All-Star weekend and be in one of its key events.

The Slam Dunk contest has always been a popular show, and while it has lost some of its luster in recent years, it is still one of the most-watched competition in the NBA.

"Why would I say no?" Toscano-Anderson said when asked about how he was invited to the contest, via NBC Sports. "I'm a kid from 95th and A Street in East Oakland. I used to dunk on courts in my grandfather's driveway and break through the milk crates. ... I'm still a kid when it comes to enjoying the game. I love this game more than anything. This is what I love the most in my life. So, it was a no-brainer for me. Why would I say no to All-Star Weekend?"

As for his plans in the Dunk Contest, JTA refused to give further details. However, he did mention that he won't be relying on athleticism given the fact that he knows his opponents are all more athletic than him.

With that said, he said he'll be leaning on "creativity" and "showmanship" to have a shot at the award.

Warriors on a Roll Heading to NBA All-Star Weekend

Juan Toscano-Anderson has every reason to be excited about the season and the All-Star weekend. While Golden State is still missing the services of Draymond Green, they remain second in the Western Conference standings with a 42-16 record prior to Wednesday's contest.

For the All-Star weekend, JTA won't be alone in Cleveland as well. The Warriors will be well-represented in the festivities, with sharpshooter Stephen Curry and forward Andrew Wiggins playing in the All-Star Game.

Draymond Green was also named to the All-Star team, but his injury prevents him from participating. Dubs rookie Jonathan Kuminga will also take part in the celebration, serving as a replacement in the Rising Stars game.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Angelo Walter

WATCH: Best of Juan Toscano-Anderson's Dunks | 2021-2022 Highlights via Golden State Warriors