LOS ANGELES - One of the names buzzing around in line with the 2011 NBA All Star Weekend is that of Los Angeles Clippers' Blake Griffin. The rookie sensation has a booked weekend, participating in the T-Mobile Rookies-Sophomore game, the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest and of course the NBA All-Star Game.

Griffin has joined an elite group that includes Yao Ming and Shaquille O’ Neal who have been voted to play in the All-Star game in their rookie year. Judging by his showing in the current NBA season, it is not surprising.

Technically however, Blake Griffin is not really a rookie. He originally got into the NBA last year but a knee injury practically sidelined him for the whole season.

Regardless, Griffin seems to be the player to watch. Actually, Griffin made a great showing, helping the rookies to a come-from-behind 148-140 win over the sophomores already. John Wall of the Washington Wizards was adjudged the MVP for the NBA All-Star Rookie Challenge.

Next up will be the Sprite Slam Dunk competition where Griffin is one of the favorites once more. He along with other participants, DeMar DeRozan of the Toronto Raptors, Serge Ibaka of the Oklahoma City Thunder and JaVale McGree of the Washington Wizards promise to show off some powerful and eye-boggling dunks.

Then after that is the main attraction, the NBA All-Star game where Griffin is a reserve on the West team. Whether Griffin is a starter or a reserve, you know that all eyes will be on him.

In all, Griffin is entered in 3 events. Maybe if he could dribble, pass and shoot the 3-point bombs, Griffin would be entered in all events!

Regardless, it is a busy NBA All Star Weekend for this Clippers’ rookie.