As Jamito’s sidestep dunk goes international, Narvasa unimpressed

MANILA, Philippines – While many find Jammer Jamito’s sidestep dunk hilarious, PBA commissioner Chito Narvasa is not impressed.

In a column on the Philippine Star on Tuesday, May 2, Narvasa expressed his displeasure over Jamito’s comedy stunt during the 2017 PBA All-Star Week slam dunk contest last April 28.

“Hindi na makakaulit sa akin iyan,” Narvasa was quoted as saying. “Sinayang niya ang opportunity niya to show that he belongs.“

(He won’t get another chance with me. He wasted the opportunity to show that he belongs.)

The Barangay Ginebra rookie was a participant in the annual slam dunk contest in Lucena when he pulled 6-foot-9 teammate Japeth Aguilar near the rim. The assumption was Jamito would jump over Aguilar and finish the dunk.

Instead, Jamito sidestepped Aguilar and threw it down, which came off confusing at first before it became apparent he was trying to crack a joke.

His sidestep dunk eventually made it to the NBA show “The Starters,” where it was essentially a punchline in a segment.

This isn’t the first time the PBA’s slam dunk contest made it to international media due to a comedic stunt.

In the 2015 All-Stars, Justin Melton’s unsuccessful attempt to dunk with a blindfold went viral. This was months before Narvasa assumed office as commissioner.

In the same column, Narvasa likewise expressed his desire to see All-Stars take the games seriously and not coast for 3 quarters only to lock in come the final period – a custom that’s true for the NBA All-Stars as well. – Rappler.com