The upcoming WNBA All-Star weekend in Chicago has been overshadowed by controversy surrounding the three-point contest, with several prominent players voicing frustration over how invitations were handled.
Reigning champion Sabrina Ionescu revealed that she did not receive an official invitation to defend her title, contradicting reports that she declined. "I can't decline an offer I never got officially invited to," Ionescu stated. "So, was pretty surprised to see that. Never got invited." The New York Liberty star, who has won the contest twice, including a record-setting performance in 2023, emphasized her desire to set the record straight.
Minnesota Lynx guard Kayla McBride also publicly addressed claims that she had snubbed an invitation. McBride stated on social media that she received a "half-a**" invitation via her agent only days before the event and did not officially receive an offer. She urged fans to rely on direct communication from players and to focus on the "great shooters" who are participating.
The confirmed list of participants for the three-point contest includes rookie Azzi Fudd of Dallas, Rhyne Howard of Atlanta, Janelle Salaun of Golden State, Bridget Carleton of Portland, Marina Mabrey of Toronto, and Natisha Hiedeman of Seattle. Mabrey and Howard are the only participants with prior experience in the contest. Fudd is the fourth rookie in WNBA history to compete in the shootout, a feat previously achieved by Kelsey Mitchell, Howard, and Sonia Citron, none of whom have won the contest as rookies.
Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall draft pick, will also not be participating after reportedly declining an invitation to the contest.