2026 WNBA 3-Point Contest Participants Announced

Sabrina Ionescu has long dominated the WNBA 3-Point Contest, setting the all‑time record with a 37‑of‑40 performance in 2023. This year, however, the New York Liberty guard will not be defending her title, leaving the bragging rights up for grabs at the July 24 showdown in Chicago.

The field of six stars was revealed on Tuesday, featuring WNBA legends and a rising rookie. Marina Mabrey of the Toronto Tempo and Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream headline the list after posting the league’s top scoring averages from beyond the arc this season.

Mabrey, who made her first appearance in the 2024 contest, ranks first in the league for 3‑pointers made, while Howard, a 2022 participant, sits second in the same statistic. Their experience will be tested against a fresh face: Azzi Fudd, a Dallas Wings guard and the only rookie invited to the competition.

The remaining spots go to Bridget Carleton (Portland Fire), Natisha Hiedeman (Seattle Storm), and Janelle Salaün (Golden State Valkyries). Salaün brings international flavor, representing France on the global stage, while Carleton and Hiedeman add depth from the Western and Pacific conferences, respectively.

Top Stars Ready for a Shot at Glory

Marina Mabrey and Rhyne Howard lead the field with proven credentials. Mabrey topped the scoring list in the 2024 contest, while Howard has earned two All‑Star appearances in the event.

Despite her record‑breaking 37‑of‑40 showing in 2023, Sabrina Ionescu will sit out this year, opening the door for fresh challengers to claim the championship.

Rookies and Returning Talent

Azzi Fudd’s inclusion marks a notable milestone for the Dallas Wings guard. At 19 years old, she becomes the first rookie to compete in the modern era of the 3‑point shootout.

Returning veterans like Bridget Carleton and Natisha Hiedeman bring seasoned poise, each having appeared in previous All‑Star weekend festivities. Janelle Salaün adds a global perspective, making the 2026 field one of the most diverse in league history.

Full Participant List

• Bridget Carleton – Portland Fire (Forward)
• Azzi Fudd – Dallas Wings (Guard) – Rookie
• Natisha Hiedeman – Seattle Storm (Guard)
• Rhyne Howard – Atlanta Dream (Guard)
• Marina Mabrey – Toronto Tempo (Guard)
• Janelle Salaün – Golden State Valkyries (Forward)

How to Watch the Contest

The 2026 WNBA 3‑Point Contest will air live on ESPN at 8:00 p.m. ET on Friday, July 24, from the Wintrust Arena in Chicago. Fans can also stream the event on the WNBA app and watch highlights on the league’s social channels.

In addition to the 3‑point shootout, the All‑Star weekend will feature the Shooting Stars contest at the same venue. Both events are part of a weekend of star‑studded competition leading up to the Team Teresa Weatherspoon versus Team Cynthia Cooper matchup on Saturday.

The contest format includes two timed rounds, “money balls” worth two points, and special “From the Logo” shots. A unique “all money ball” rack allows shooters to place every ball worth two points among the five shooting locations, adding a new strategic layer to the competition.

With no Sabrina Ionescu to defend her record, this year’s contest promises fresh drama and the chance for new champions to join the likes of Allie Quigley, who holds the most titles with four.