It wasn’t easy for Glenn Robinson III not to be there, but he was watching. An ankle injury in camp, which required surgery, kept him out of the first 58 Pacers games this season … and away from All-Star Weekend 2018 in Los Angeles.
Instead, he was in Phoenix working out with his skills trainer. Why Phoenix? Because that’s where Dan Dyrek, the Pacers’ physical therapist would be. Darren Collison, who was rehabbing from having his left knee scoped, was also there.
GRIII was rooting on his teammate, Victor Oladipo, in the dunk contest. Oladipo had approached Robinson III about doing the dunk contest and handling his unfinished business. A thoughtful, nice gesture.
And now Glenn wants his own shot.
Upon returning to Indianapolis for the final two months of the season, Robinson III told VigilantSports.com that he wants in another Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star Weekend. He won in 2017 and would like the chance to defend his crown.
“I definitely think I could have won that, repeated [as champion] of that dunk contest,” GRIII said. “But I was happy for Vic to get out there and do some of the things he did.”
A lot can change from now until then, as Robinson III is trying to earn a permanent spot back in the rotation — currently playing more than 13 minutes per game on average. He’s in a contract year, and he’s just 24. He’s yet to hit the prime of his career. This ankle injury was the first major injury of his career.
But Robinson III made clear that he would welcome another chance on center stage at All-Star Saturday.
“I’ve got a couple dunks that ain’t been done for next year that’s in the plans. I got you.”
2017 Slam Dunk Champ Glenn Robinson III with the 360 slam in transition! 🌪️🌪️#Pacers pic.twitter.com/HWFv5Y23cZ
— NBA (@NBA) March 28, 2018
https://www.instagram.com/p/BfkIMcRHFs2/