Former MCC Eagle selected for NBA Slam Dunk contest

Toronto Raptors rookie forward Jamario Moon will participate in the slam dunk contest during all-star weekend.

Moon, 27, was one of fours players named Monday to compete in the annual event, scheduled for Feb. 16 in New Orleans.

The former Meridian Community College basketball player will be joined by defending champion Gerald Green of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic and Rudy Gay of the Memphis Grizzlies.

Moon has emerged from virtual anonymity to become a key performer for the Raptors, averaging 8.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.6 blocked shots and 28.7 minutes in 30 games, including 28 starts.

He is the first Raptor selected to take part in the contest since 2000, when Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady finished first and third, respectively

Moon recently scored a career-high 17 points versus Philadelphia this past weekend. He also claimed nine rebounds and two steals in that game.