Clark and Ionescu Lead WNBA 3-Point Contest Field

WNBA Stars Gear Up for All-star Weekend: A Look at the 3-Point Contest Contenders

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – excitement is building for the highly anticipated WNBA All-Star Game, with some of the league’s brightest stars set to showcase their skills in various events. This year’s 3-point contest promises to be a thrilling display of long-range accuracy, featuring a compelling mix of reigning champions and rising talents.

Last season’s double-title winner, Caitlin clark, headlines the skills portion of the competition once again. She’ll be joined by a formidable lineup including New York’s Natasha Cloud, Seattle Storm’s Skylar diggins, Erica Wheeler, and the Lynx’s Courtney Williams.

The 3-point contest itself features a star-studded field. Sabrina Ionescu,who set a record with 37 points in the final round of the 2023 contest,is looking to reclaim her title. Rookie sensation caitlin Clark, who elected to make her 3-point contest debut in her home state of Indiana, is also a significant draw. while Clark has experienced some shooting struggles this season following injuries,her collegiate career numbers speak to her prodigious talent,holding both the Division I career scoring and 3-pointers records.Her WNBA debut season saw her lead the league in made threes.

Other notable participants include Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard, who currently leads the WNBA in 3-pointers made. Despite a recent knee injury sidelining her for the All-Star Game itself, Howard’s inclusion in the earlier stages of the competition highlights her sharpshooting prowess. She was replaced in the All-Star Game by Kayla McBride, who is tied for second in 3-pointers made with Kelsey Plum. Gray sits in fourth, while Ionescu is tied for fifth, and rookie Citron rounds out the group with her notable rookie season performance.

Evergreen Insights:

The 3-point contest has increasingly become a marquee event in basketball, reflecting the modern game’s emphasis on perimeter shooting.The success of these contests often hinges on the participation of high-profile players who can both perform under pressure and draw significant fan attention. Beyond the immediate excitement of the competition, these events serve as valuable platforms for players to showcase their individual skills, connect with fans, and further elevate the profile of the WNBA. the strategic decision by players like Clark to debut in such events at specific locations also highlights the growing importance of storytelling and personal narrative in sports marketing. As the WNBA continues to grow, these individual skill competitions will undoubtedly remain a key component of its All-Star weekend festivities, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of women’s basketball.

What is teh meaning of Caitlin Clark and Sabrina Ionescu competing in the 3-Point Contest beyond just showcasing shooting skill?

The Highly Anticipated Matchup

The 2025 WNBA all-Star Weekend is generating meaningful buzz, largely fueled by the confirmed participants in the 3-Point Contest. Caitlin Clark and Sabrina Ionescu are poised to headline the event, creating a must-watch showdown between two of the league’s most dynamic and prolific shooters. This contest isn’t just about skill; it’s a symbolic passing of the torch and a festivity of the rising popularity of women’s basketball. The event will be held on July 19th, adding to the excitement surrounding the all-Star game.

Contest Participants & Key Stats

Beyond Clark and Ionescu, the field is packed with sharpshooters. Here’s a look at the confirmed contestants as of July 16, 2025, and their regular season 3-point statistics:

Caitlin Clark (Indiana fever): 37.8% from three, 3.1 attempts per game. Known for her deep range and quick release.

Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty): 36.1% from three, 6.8 attempts per game. A consistent threat and a proven performer in high-pressure situations.

Jewell loyd (Seattle Storm): 35.2% from three, 5.5 attempts per game. A versatile scorer with a knack for hitting clutch shots.

jackie Young (Las Vegas Aces): 38.5% from three, 4.9 attempts per game.A key component of the defending champion Aces’ offense.

Allie Quigley (Chicago Sky): 41.3% from three, 5.1 attempts per game. A veteran known for her accuracy and experience.

Rhyne Howard (Atlanta Dream): 34.7% from three, 5.8 attempts per game. A rising star with a promising shooting stroke.

These players represent the best in WNBA 3-point shooting, promising a competitive and entertaining contest. The competition will be fierce, with each player bringing a unique style and skillset to the table.

Clark vs. Ionescu: A Rivalry Rekindled

The anticipation surrounding Clark and Ionescu stems from their collegiate rivalry and their continued success in the professional ranks. Their previous head-to-head matchups in college drew record viewership, and their WNBA encounters have continued to captivate fans.

College Showdowns: Their collegiate games were highly publicized, showcasing their exceptional talent and competitive spirit.

WNBA Performances: Both players have quickly established themselves as stars in the WNBA, consistently delivering impressive performances.

Social Media impact: Their presence on social media has substantially boosted the league’s visibility and attracted a new generation of fans.

This 3-Point Contest provides another platform for their rivalry to unfold,and fans are eager to see who will emerge victorious.

WNBA 3-Point Contest Format & Rules

The WNBA 3-Point Contest follows a standardized format designed to test players’ accuracy and speed. Here’s a breakdown of the rules:

1. Rounds: The contest consists of two rounds.
2. Stations: Players shoot from five designated stations around the 3-point arc.
3. Balls: Each station has five balls, with alternating colors representing different point values (1 point for orange, 2 points for white).
4. Time Limit: players have 60 seconds to complete each round.
5. Scoring: Points are awarded based on the colour of the ball made.
6. Final Round: The top three players from the first round advance to the final round, where they compete for the championship.

Understanding the format is crucial for appreciating the strategic decisions players make during the contest.

Past context: WNBA 3-Point Champions

The WNBA 3-Point Contest has a rich history, with several notable champions. Here are some past winners:

2024: Kelsey Plum (Las Vegas Aces)

2023: Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty)

2022: Kelsey Plum (Las Vegas Aces)

* 2021: Allie Quigley (Chicago Sky) – a record three-time winner.

Allie Quigley’s dominance in the contest highlights the importance of consistency and experience. this year’s field is aiming to etch their names into WNBA history alongside these accomplished shooters.

The Impact of 3-Point Shooting in the WNBA