Clark, Ionescu Decline 3-Point Contest, Imperils Event’s Future

In a surprising turn of events, Caitlin Clark, the standout Iowa guard, has opted out of the highly anticipated 2026 WNBA 3-point contest. Joining her in this decision are two-time champion Sabrina Ionescu, who currently holds the record for the most points scored in the event’s history with an impressive 37, and Kayla McBride, the league’s active leader in 3-pointers with a remarkable 793 shots made from beyond the arc. The news comes from CBS Sports, highlighting a notable absence of some of the WNBA’s biggest names from one of its marquee events.

Despite the withdrawals of these elite players, the contest will still feature an exciting lineup. The WNBA has secured participation from top talents like Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 overall draft pick, and Marina Mabrey, who has made waves this season by matching the single-game records for points (53) and 3-pointers (nine). They will be joined by Rhyne Howard, Bridget Carleton, Janelle Salaun, and Natisha Hiedeman, marking the first time since 2023 that the 3-point competition will include six participants. This year’s event will take center stage during All-Star Friday Night at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

Mabrey and Howard have both previously participated in the contest, but neither has claimed victory. The remaining competitors will be making their first appearances, which could offer a fresh dynamic to the event. Historically, the 3-point contest has provided some of the most thrilling moments in WNBA All-Star history. For instance, Allie Quigley’s record fourth victory in front of her home crowd in Chicago in 2022 stands out, as does Ionescu’s incredible performance last year, where she sunk 25 of 27 shots, including a staggering 20 in a row.

As the excitement builds for the contest, the absence of Clark, Ionescu, and McBride casts a shadow over the event. The WNBA has faced scrutiny for its marketing and promotional strategies, and the decision of these star players to decline participation may raise questions about the future appeal of the 3-point contest. The league has long relied on its stars to draw in fans and maintain interest in its events, and the lack of participation from these key figures could impact viewership and enthusiasm.

The 3-point contest’s ability to deliver electrifying performances is well-documented, yet the narrative heading into this year’s event will inevitably focus on who is missing rather than who is competing. This trend of declining participation from top players could signal a larger issue within the league regarding player engagement and event appeal, as noted by CBS Sports.

Overall, while the contest will still showcase a talented group of players vying for the title, the absence of some of the WNBA’s most recognized names underscores a pivotal moment for the league. With the spotlight firmly on the competitors who will take the floor, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if this year’s event can still deliver the excitement and drama that has historically defined the WNBA All-Star festivities.