Former UNLV player Derrick Jones Jr. looking to impress in dunk contest

Former UNLV forward Derrick Jones, Jr. spent only one year in Las Vegas and the current Phoenix Suns rookie has not put up a lot of stats. He is hoping to make a name for himself at the NBA All-Star dunk contest this weekend in New Orleans.

“Not a lot of people know who I am,” Jones, Jr. told NBA.com’s Lang Whitaker during a NBA Hang Time podcast this week. “This is my rookie year in the NBA … but as soon as I get on that floor, they’re going to know who I am.

“I’ve been in a lot of dunk contests in my life, but this is one I really have to prepare for,” he said. “I go out there just to have fun, and do what I do.”

He was declared ineligible at UNLV due to questions about his ACT scores and his only options were to go pro. He went undrafted but was picked up by the Suns but has played only seven games this year and buried on the depth chart.

As for what he will do on Saturday night he is still figuring things out.

"Honestly, I have no idea right now,'' Jones told AZCentral.com. "I'm still brainstorming things. I’m practicing. In regards to my routine, I still have yet to figure it out."

For those unfamiliar with Jones’ ability, below are some highlights.

Jones, Jr. will be competing against Orlando Magic’s Aaron Gordon, last year’s runner-up, DeAndre Jordan of the LA Clippers and Glenn Robinson III of the Indiana Pacers.

Here are the details on how to watch.

When: Saturday, Feb. 18, at 8 p.m. ET (third event)

Where: Smoothie King Center

TV: TNT

Streaming: TNT website