Former Spartan Shannon Brown Will Compete in NBA Slam Dunk Contest

Shannon Brown, perhaps one of the most exciting Spartans of the last decade, will compete in the NBA's slam dunk competition.

While several big names such as LeBron James have declined to participate, Brown is quite possibly the one-to-watch along with former dunk champ, Nate Robinson of the New York Knicks.

Brown, who was known for his high-flying acrobatics under Tom Izzo, has quickly become one the NBA's star dunk-artists.

Coming off the bench and contributing quality minutes for Phil Jackson is just one of the things that Brown does in Los Angeles, he's a staple on highlight reels and has made a habit of posterizing opponents with his powerful jams.

Kobe Bryant has been quoted saying something to the effect that Shannon Brown can jump higher than his Airness, Michael Jordan!

In his junior year at Michigan State (2005-06), Brown averaged 17.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and developed as a bona fide scoring threat.

The NBA journeyman joined the Lakers last year, his fourth team in as many years.

Brown is a role player in L.A., but that doesn't stop him from dropping fans' jaws on a nightly basis. The point guard is raking in 7.3 points per game and is shooting just under 35 percent from beyond the arc.

With newly developed game in hand, Brown has made a name for himself in the city of angels—his drive and determination have come as a welcome addition to Kobe Bryant and the rest of Laker nation.

At 31-9 (best record in the NBA), the Lakers have a seven game advantage over the Phoenix Suns.

Final Four's and NBA championships are just a couple of the accolades the former Spartan has earned, he's on the trail of taking home a slam dunk championship trophy to add to his mantle come All-Star weekend.