Slam Dunk Contest 2015: LeBron James admits we may never see him take part

World's best player leaves fans disappointed - but reveals his pick to win it

LeBron James celebrates with Tristan Thompson after James scored during the first half against the Miami Heat (Getty Images)

The world’s best basketball player LeBron James has admitted that his long-anticipated entrance into the NBA’s Slam Dunk Contest may never come.

The Dunk Contest, one of the biggest events on the NBA calendar, has long been a favourite event during All-Star Weekend, with Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Vince Carter among former winners.

Since entering the league as the No 1 overall pick in 2003, James, has become the league’s best player and one of the greatest players of all-time, winning two titles and four MVP awards. As well as his supreme skill the forward is also known for his acrobatic and powerful dunks – fans have long been calling for his inclusion into the competition.

But the Cleveland Cavalier admitted, to the disappointed of fans worldwide, that his time may have passed.

“I don't think so man, I just turned 30 this winter,” he said, laughing, when asked by The Independent via Cisco Telepresence if we would ever see him take part.

“It’s definitely something I've thought about but I've just never been a part of it. But we've definitely got a great field this year.”

This year Giannis Anteokounmpo, nicknamed the ‘Greek Freak’, Zach LaVine, Victor Oladipo and Mason Plumlee take part – James also revealed who he thinks will win.

“I'm looking forward to seeing Zach LaVine the high flyer from Minnesota, he’s my pick to win it.”

The Slam Dunk Contest takes place tonight at 1.30am. The 64th NBA All-Star Game tips-off at 1am on Sunday night/Monday morning. Both will be shown live on BT Sport.