Now, that the NBA All-star weekend is over, let’s reflect on some of the great moments of the Taco Bell Skills Challenge with the one and only ” Father Prime ” himself Dwyane Wade back in 2006.

Jayson Tatum winner of the Taco Bell Skills Challenge

Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics was crowned the winner of the Taco Bell Skills Challenge. What an amazing last-minute half-court shot to win it all.

Certainly, I must say this is my favorite event of the NBA All-Star weekend. The skills challenge is based on who has the best skills in the NBA.

It consists of dribbling, passing, lay-ups and shooting. Four basic basketball fundamentals you may ask, is it? It is, however not many can master it during games let alone in a skills challenge in front of thousands of fans cheering you on. It is harder than you think. The pressure takes over mentally. That is the perfect moment that you realize you missed an open lay-up when you know you shouldn’t have.

The nerves take over so, therefore, shots, lay-ups, and bad passes occur. The most dynamic event to witness the participants go full speed knowing is being timed. It is an adrenaline rush, to say the least, and the excitement of the crowd is outstanding. I do commend all of the All-Stars especially the first-timers who get nervous let alone interact with their fellow All-Stars. Indeed, it is a fun event however I prefer to see the players compete as if it’s a regular game.

Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Father Prime Skills Challenge winner

Looking back at the 2006 Taco Skills Challenge brought back great memories of Wade killing the event. Watching how seamless he went from one station to the next was a sight to see. That goes to show you what an amazing athlete he is. That year he ended winning the skills challenge. A young Wade doing what he does best and that is being one the best shooting guards in the league.

The video does not lie. haha, I must admit, I am a bit heartbroken he is retiring this year along with Udonis Haslem my other favorite heat player. As a Heat fan, what am I suppose to do next year? The Heat is losing two incredibly passionate players this year who devoted their career to be a Heat. Therefore, now, it is time to continue to build for the future. In conclusion, HeatNation will cherish every moment Wade made in the league for 16 years.

To sum it up, the fans are going to miss ” Flash” entertaining HeatNation with the fake pumps, euro step, mid-range shots, and lastly with the winning shots. One last dance for Father Prime.

Follow me on Twitter @coachguevara205

About Author

Penny G

Hello, my name is Penny Guevara, I am the WNBA Dept Head/Head of Talent Acquisition /social media coordinator. I joined Belly Up Sports a year ago and haven't looked back since. A family-oriented company that only makes you better. I have an Associate's degree in Sports Management and a certificate in Media Communications. I cover NCAA games for USF and I also cover the Orlando Magic. My passion for sports comes from a young age. My favorite quote is, " Everything happens for a reason"