John Collins has been one of the more popular picks to participate in the Dunk Contest this year. The high-flying Atlanta Hawks forward has proven his mettle when it comes to the prestigious All-Star event. There's no question fans would want to see him ball out and make some crazy dunks.

However, when asked about him participating in the Dunk Contest, John Collins subtly roasted the city of Cleveland. The Hawks forward jokingly implied he's reconsidering attending due to where the event was going to be held. (via NBA TV)

Turns out, Cleveland isn't a popular vacation spot amongst NBA players. Who knew?

Article Continues Below
More Atlanta Hawks News
Jared McCain, Philadephia 76ers, Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami Heat, Dyson Daniels, Atlanta Hawks, NBA Finals
Dyson Daniels, Matas Buzelis highlight NBA Finals correspondents for Thunder-PacersTomer Azarly ·
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) dribbles the ball under pressure from Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during the third quarter at Fiserv Forum.
Hawks rumors: Dominique Wilkins sounds off on potential Giannis-Trae Young duoMalik Brown ·
Nickeil Alexander-Walker playing for Timberwolves with Timberwolves logo in background.
Ranking Nickeil Alexander-Walker free-agency destinations if he leaves TimberwolvesBailey Bassett ·
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) dribbles the ball past Toronto Raptors guard Davion Mitchell (45) during the first half at State Farm Arena.
Hawks’ Trae Young puts Marcus Morris on blast for ridiculous ‘passing’ narrativeMalik Brown ·
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) dribbles against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half at American Airlines Center.
Trae Young’s 5-word message after All-NBA snubTomer Azarly ·
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts with Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) after the Bucks defeated the Hawks at State Farm Arena.
Hawks rumors: Bill Simmons envisions Giannis joining Trae Young with blockbuster tradeJackson Stone ·

In all seriousness, Collins' subtle jab may as well be a playful joke. It's unlikely that the Hawks star will turn down a Dunk Contest invite, especially given his history in the contest. He's been a popular contestant since the start of his career. The event being in a less-than-desirable spot for him won't deter him that much.

The Cavs will be hosting this year's All-Star festivities, marking only the third time in franchise history they've hosted the ASG. On the other hand, the Hawks are the most recent hosts of the All-Star Weekend, hosting it last year. However, Cleveland has had the higher honor, as they're hosting the ASG on the NBA's 75th anniversary.

Nonetheless, this comment from Collins won't sit well with Cleveland natives. If the Hawks forward does continue to attend the Dunk Contest this time, expect some boos from the Ohio fanbase when he takes the court.

The NBA has recently announced the starters for the All-Star Game. Find them here.