Cavs G Williams replaces Nelson in Skills Challenge

Feb 11, 2009 - 11:31 PM PHOENIX (Ticker) -- Two days ago, Cleveland Cavaliers guard Mo Williams was completely absent from the All-Star festivities. Now, he's about to be front and center in Phoenix this weekend.

A day after being named as Chris Bosh's replacement on the Eastern Conference roster, Williams became the beneficiary of another injury Wednesday, when he has been added to the list of participants for the annual Skills Challenge.

The event will take place on Saturday night.

Orlando Magic guard Jameer Nelson was originally set to participate, but a torn labrum has sidelined him - possibly for the rest of the season - and robbed him of his first career All-Star Game appearance.

Williams, who is averaging 17.1 points and 4.1 assists while helping lead the Cavs to a 39-11 record, will go head-to-head against three fellow point guards - San Antonio's Tony Parker, New Jersey's Devin Harris and Chicago rookie Derrick Rose.

A competition designed for guards that combines shooting, dribbling, passing and speed, the Skills Challenge has been in place as a part of All-Star Weekend since 2003.

Dwyane Wade has won it twice, while Jason Kidd, Baron Davis, Steve Nash and Deron Williams have taken the crown as well. Williams set an event record last season by completing the challenge in 25.5 seconds.