After last year’s thrilling dunk competition, LeBron James “preliminarily” placed his name into this year’s contest.

James confirmed today that he will NOT be competing in the marquee All-Star Saturday event.

James ignited a lot of excitement by his indication that he would compete this year.  And why wouldn’t it?  You have perhaps the game’s biggest attraction taking part in an event with much historical significance to the landscape of the NBA.

LeBron could have joined an elite group of players who generated a surreal atmosphere in the event.  Dominique Wilkins, Michael Jordan, Spud Webb and Vince Carter all jog our memories with the breathtaking moments they gave us throughout the years.  It could have been one more thing that James could have added to his resume – - which, by the way, figures to be stuffed by the close of his career.

Just in case you didn't know, LeBron is the Chosen One.

But, maybe James looked at this situation from the opposite site of the fence.  Perhaps there is just too much for him to lose (in his mind).  Maybe it’s just too much of a risk for him not to be perceived as the King.  After all, he does have a mural on a Cleveland building with his arms outstretched as if he were Christ.  Of course, LeBron also has a tattoo saying that he is “The Chosen One” (a name given to him by the media denoting his abilities as a high school player) on his back. 

Maybe he needs to realize that it’s OK to lose something as trivial as a dunk contest.  And I think the fans and the media need to be the ones to tell him.

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