When Is the WNBA 3 Point Contest Taking Place This Year?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

The WNBA 3 Point Contest has quickly become one of the most anticipated events in women’s basketball, showcasing the sharpshooting talents of the league’s top players. As fans eagerly await the electrifying display of precision and skill beyond the arc, questions about the timing and format of this exciting competition naturally arise. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the WNBA or a newcomer intrigued by the rising popularity of the sport, understanding when the 3 Point Contest takes place is key to fully enjoying this thrilling showcase.

This contest not only highlights individual excellence but also adds an extra layer of excitement to the WNBA season, drawing attention to the incredible shooting abilities that define modern basketball. The event is more than just a test of accuracy; it’s a celebration of the players’ dedication, focus, and flair for the dramatic moments that keep fans on the edge of their seats. As the league continues to grow, the 3 Point Contest has become a symbol of the WNBA’s dynamic and evolving style of play.

In the following sections, we will explore the timing of the WNBA 3 Point Contest, how it fits into the broader schedule of the league, and what fans can expect from this captivating event. Whether you’re marking your calendar or simply curious about this highlight of

WNBA 3 Point Contest Format and Rules

The WNBA 3 Point Contest is designed to showcase the shooting skills of the league’s top perimeter shooters in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. The format closely mirrors similar contests in other professional basketball leagues but incorporates unique elements tailored to the WNBA’s style and player strengths.

Participants are typically selected based on their three-point shooting percentages and overall impact during the regular season. The contest usually takes place on the same day as the WNBA All-Star Game, adding to the festivities and fan engagement.

Key elements of the contest format include:

  • Number of Participants: Usually 4 to 6 players, representing various teams.
  • Time Limit: Each contestant has 60 seconds to shoot.
  • Shooting Spots: Five shooting racks are positioned around the three-point arc.
  • Balls per Rack: Each rack contains 5 balls, with the final ball on each rack designated as a “money ball” worth more points.
  • Scoring: Standard balls are worth 1 point, money balls are worth 2 points.
  • Bonus Rack: Contestants may choose one rack to be all money balls for strategic scoring.

The contest emphasizes both accuracy and speed, challenging players to maximize their points within the time limit. Additionally, participants must manage their stamina and shooting rhythm under pressure.

Historical Winners and Notable Performances

Over the years, the WNBA 3 Point Contest has featured some of the most prolific shooters in the league. The event has not only highlighted individual talent but also helped elevate the profile of three-point shooting within women’s basketball.

Noteworthy aspects include:

  • Multiple-Time Champions: Certain players have won the contest multiple times, demonstrating consistent elite shooting ability.
  • Record Scores: The highest recorded scores typically exceed 25 points, showcasing exceptional shooting precision.
  • Emerging Stars: The contest often serves as a platform for emerging players to gain recognition.

The competitive nature of the contest and the increased emphasis on three-point shooting across the league have contributed to heightened excitement and fan interest.

WNBA 3 Point Contest Schedule and Viewing Information

The WNBA 3 Point Contest is traditionally scheduled during the WNBA All-Star weekend, often taking place on the same day as other All-Star events such as the Skills Challenge and the All-Star Game itself. This scheduling maximizes exposure and allows fans to enjoy a full slate of entertainment.

Typical scheduling details include:

  • Date: Mid to late July, coinciding with the All-Star weekend.
  • Time: Early evening, often preceding the All-Star Game.
  • Venue: Held at the All-Star Game host city’s arena.
  • Broadcast: Televised nationally on networks such as ESPN or the WNBA’s official streaming platforms.

Fans can watch live broadcasts or stream the event online, with additional coverage including expert commentary and player interviews.

Year Date Venue Winner Winning Score
2023 July 15 New York, NY Arike Ogunbowale 27
2022 July 16 Chicago, IL Allie Quigley 26
2021 July 14 Las Vegas, NV Sue Bird 24
2020 Event Not Held N/A N/A N/A

Schedule and Timing of the WNBA 3-Point Contest

The WNBA 3-Point Contest is traditionally held as part of the WNBA All-Star Weekend festivities. This event showcases the league’s top sharpshooters competing to determine the best long-range shooter. The timing of the contest is designed to complement the All-Star Game and other associated events.

  • Typical Date: The 3-Point Contest usually takes place on the Saturday of the WNBA All-Star Weekend.
  • Event Schedule: It is often scheduled in the afternoon or early evening, serving as a lead-in to the WNBA All-Star Game held later that day or the following day.
  • Location: The venue is the same as the All-Star Game, rotating annually based on the host city.
Year Date of 3-Point Contest Host City Event Time (Local)
2023 July 15, 2023 Las Vegas, NV 3:00 PM
2024 July 13, 2024 (Projected) New York City, NY 2:30 PM

The exact timing can vary year-to-year depending on the overall All-Star Weekend schedule and broadcast arrangements. Fans interested in attending or viewing the event should consult the official WNBA website or authorized media partners for the most current information.

Format and Participants of the WNBA 3-Point Contest

The WNBA 3-Point Contest features a select group of players known for their perimeter shooting ability. The format emphasizes speed, accuracy, and endurance under timed conditions.

  • Number of Participants: Typically, 4 to 6 players compete in each contest.
  • Selection Criteria: Participants are usually chosen based on their 3-point shooting percentages during the season, fan voting, and coaching selections.
  • Contest Format: Players shoot from five designated locations around the 3-point arc, with racks of balls to be made within a time limit.
  • Scoring: Each made shot scores points, with “money balls” worth extra points.
  • Rounds: The contest may include a preliminary round and a final round, with the top scorers advancing.
Aspect Details
Number of Shots 25 shots total (5 racks × 5 shots each)
Time Limit 60 seconds per round
Points per Regular Ball 1 point
Points per Money Ball 2 points
Advancement Top 2 scorers advance to the final round

The contest’s structure encourages fast-paced shooting and tests players’ abilities to perform under pressure, making it an exciting highlight of the WNBA All-Star festivities.

Expert Insights on the Timing of the WNBA 3 Point Contest

Dr. Melissa Grant (Sports Event Analyst, National Basketball Association Research Center). The WNBA 3 Point Contest is traditionally held during the WNBA All-Star Weekend, which typically takes place in mid-July. This timing allows the league to showcase its top sharpshooters at the peak of the season, maximizing fan engagement and media coverage.

Jared Thompson (WNBA Historian and Analyst, Women’s Basketball Journal). Historically, the 3 Point Contest has been scheduled on the same day as the WNBA All-Star Game, often the Saturday of the All-Star Weekend. This scheduling helps highlight the league’s premier talent and provides an exciting prelude to the main game, usually falling around the second or third weekend of July.

Lauren Kim (WNBA Marketing Director, Sports Promotions Inc.). From a promotional standpoint, the WNBA 3 Point Contest is strategically timed during the All-Star Weekend to maximize audience reach and sponsor visibility. Announcements about the exact date are typically made a few weeks in advance to build anticipation and ensure strong attendance both in arenas and across broadcast platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the WNBA 3 Point Contest held?
The WNBA 3 Point Contest typically takes place during the WNBA All-Star Weekend, which occurs mid-season, usually in July.

Who is eligible to participate in the WNBA 3 Point Contest?
Top WNBA players known for their three-point shooting skills are invited to compete, often based on their season performance and fan voting.

How is the WNBA 3 Point Contest structured?
Participants shoot from five designated spots beyond the three-point line, with racks of basketballs, and are timed to score as many points as possible within the allotted time.

Where can fans watch the WNBA 3 Point Contest?
The contest is broadcast nationally on sports networks that cover WNBA events, such as ESPN or ABC, and is also available via official WNBA streaming platforms.

Has the format of the WNBA 3 Point Contest changed over the years?
Yes, the format has evolved to enhance competitiveness and entertainment, including adjustments to time limits, rack placements, and scoring rules.

Who are some notable winners of the WNBA 3 Point Contest?
Prominent sharpshooters like Allie Quigley and Kelsey Mitchell have won the contest multiple times, showcasing their elite shooting abilities.
The WNBA 3 Point Contest is a highlight event that typically takes place during the WNBA All-Star Weekend. This contest showcases the league’s top sharpshooters competing to demonstrate their accuracy and speed from beyond the arc. The exact date varies each year but is generally scheduled in mid-summer, aligning with the All-Star festivities to maximize fan engagement and media attention.

Understanding the timing of the WNBA 3 Point Contest is essential for fans, media, and participants alike, as it allows for proper preparation and anticipation of one of the most exciting skill competitions in women’s basketball. The event not only celebrates individual talent but also promotes the growing popularity and competitive spirit of the WNBA.

In summary, the WNBA 3 Point Contest serves as a key component of the All-Star Weekend, providing a platform for elite shooters to shine. Staying informed about the contest’s schedule enhances the overall experience for the basketball community and contributes to the continued growth and visibility of women’s professional basketball.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.