TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama's high-flying dunk artist Tony Mitchell honed his skills with the help of a backyard trampoline and video games.

The Crimson Tide sophomore's father, Tony Mitchell Sr., says his son learned moves by watching video games and dragged the family's basketball goal next to the trampoline to practice dunking.

Mitchell's unconventional methods, and jumping ability, have paid dividends. The 6-foot-6, 210-pound forward has helped vault Alabama into Southeastern Conference title and NCAA tournament contention.

He ranks among the league's Top 10 in five categories, including scoring and rebounding. Mitchell also leads the team with 50 dunks.

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He's coming off an eight-point game against Auburn, only the second time this season Mitchell has failed to reach double digits.

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