Watch: Ken Griffey Jr. was in some very 90’s dunk contests
Ken Griffey Jr. was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame because he was a true five-tool player, or maybe a six-tool player, if you include dunking.
For a few years in the 90’s, Griffey participated in a very 90’s event—Foot Locker Slam Fest, a cross-sport dunk contest featuring mostly MLB and NFL players. It was amazing.
The rules were simple: 16 players were placed in a bracket-style tournament and had two opportunities to show off their best dunk. The rim was 10 feet high, but they got to use a women’s ball so it was easier to palm.
In 1991, 1992 and 1993, Griffey turned in some impressive performances but got bounced in the opening round each time.
In ’91 he threw down a nice two-handed slam, but was shown up by Orioles pitcher and former LSU basketball player Ben McDonald.
[youtube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GkWzIeIGSE]
The next year he only managed to successfully complete his first attempt and was eliminated by Raiders wideout Tim Brown.
The Kid got a raw deal in 1993, when he faced off against college basketball star Kenny Lofton in the first round.
[youtube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUupyaNiW1s]
So we finally have proof that Griffey could actually do everything.
