Clash of the slam dunk titans: Norwood, Williams lead All-Star cast

Puerto Princesa City - Sta. Lucia’s Kelly Williams is hoping to regain his 2008 slam dunk crown but is expected to face stiff opposition especially from reigning champion Gabe Norwood of Rain or Shine and a host of other darkhorse contenders. Joining Williams and Norwood in the 2010 PBA All-Star slam dunk contest are Derby Aces teammates KG Canaleta and Rico Maierhofer, Jared Dilinger of Talk N Text and Barangay Ginebra’s JC Intal. "I could only watch last year and enjoyed seeing the rest of the dunkers. I have to worry about my health," said Williams, who was relegated to being a spectator in last year’s All-Star weekend after a blood disorder sidelined him. While Williams and Norwood – who are both former are the heavy favorites, Canaleta is hoping to win back the crown that he once had for three straight years, from 2005 to 2007. In 2008, Canaleta begged off from joining the tournament, but returned last year, only to lose to Norwood. "I’ve learned from my mistakes last year," said Canaleta. "I have to be more creative this time. Dunking is not about who can dunk, but who among the dunkers can be more creative." Dillinger tried to be creative last year when he wore boxing gloves while attempting to dunk. Whether he will do the same trick or come up with something more innovative remains to be seen. “I’m just here to entertain the crowd." Intal raised his game several notches higher as a Gin King last conference. Part of the former Ateneo stalwart’s arsenal is his dunking where he wowed the crowd with some highlight reels this season. Cyrus Baguio, himself a former slam dunk champion, is one of those rooting for Intal and Canaleta. "He’s (Intal) my teammate and I support him, but aside from JC, I will also be rooting for KG," said Baguio. Asked whether he has plans of joining the event at the last minute or attempt a comeback next season, Baguio said his dunking days are over. "I’m through with dunking. That’s not my passion anymore. My concentration is focused with my game and how to help my team." – Rey Joble, GMANews.TV