Caitlin Clark Says No to 2026 WNBA 3-Point Contest, Fans React
Iowa fans and basketball enthusiasts across the country are buzzing after Caitlin Clark, the former Hawkeyes superstar and current Indiana Fever guard, turned down an invitation to compete in the 2026 WNBA 3-Point Contest. The announcement, made Tuesday by the WNBA, marks the third straight season Clark has skipped the marquee event.
According to ESPN's Alexa Philippou, Clark was among three star players invited but declined. Defending champion Sabrina Ionescu and Minnesota Lynx guard Kayla McBride also passed on the opportunity. The contest is set for July 25 at the United Center in Chicago.
Clark, who was selected to her third consecutive All-Star Game, has built a reputation as arguably the best three-point shooter in the league, averaging 2.5 three-pointers per game this season. She skipped the competition during her rookie year in 2024 and missed the 2025 event due to injury when Indianapolis hosted All-Star Weekend. While some hoped she would finally make her debut this year, fans will have to wait at least another season.
Social media erupted with reactions. Some fans expressed disappointment, with one posting, 'Ducking the smoke as always.' Others defended her, noting potential lingering back issues. Clark has been working her way back to full health, and her decision may be related to that.
Why Did Caitlin Clark Skip the 3-Point Contest?
Clark's exact reasons for opting out have not been made public. However, sources close to the situation suggest that lingering back issues could be a factor. The Fever guard has been managing her recovery while maintaining an elite level of play. She is averaging 20.7 points per game, ranking sixth in the WNBA, and sits second in the league in playmaking with 7.8 assists per contest.
Despite skipping the contest, Clark continues to dominate. On July 17, she made history by becoming the first player in WNBA history to record 40 points and 10 assists in a single game, dropping 45 points and 10 assists against the Seattle Storm. She followed that with 17 points and seven assists in a 108-88 win over the New York Liberty.
Who Will Compete in the 2026 WNBA 3-Point Contest?
The field for this year's contest includes Dallas Wings guard Azzi Fudd, Portland Fire forward Bridget Carleton, Seattle Storm guard Natisha Hiedeman, Atlanta Dream star Rhyne Howard, Toronto Tempo veteran Marina Mabrey, and Golden State Valkyries forward Janelle Salaun. With Clark, Ionescu, and McBride out, the competition remains open.
Clark Named Eastern Conference Player of the Week
On Tuesday, the WNBA named Clark the Eastern Conference Player of the Week for the week of July 13-19. During that stretch, she averaged 25.0 points per game, scoring 75 total points — the second-most by any Eastern Conference player that week. Her 45-point, 10-assist performance against the Storm was a historic milestone.
With the All-Star break approaching, Clark will get a few days to recover. Fans will be watching closely to see if she can carry this momentum into the second half of the season.
For Iowa fans, Clark's continued success is a point of pride. The former Hawkeyes star remains one of the most electrifying players in the WNBA, and her decision to prioritize health over spectacle aligns with the values of hard work and long-term success that resonate in the Hawkeye State.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Caitlin Clark turn down the 3-Point Contest?
Clark has not publicly stated her reasons, but lingering back issues are believed to be a factor. She has been managing her recovery while maintaining elite performance.
Has Caitlin Clark ever competed in the WNBA 3-Point Contest?
No. Clark skipped the contest in 2024 as a rookie, missed the 2025 event due to injury, and has now declined the 2026 invitation.
Who is competing in the 2026 WNBA 3-Point Contest?
The field includes Azzi Fudd, Bridget Carleton, Natisha Hiedeman, Rhyne Howard, Marina Mabrey, and Janelle Salaun.
What has Caitlin Clark achieved this season?
Clark is averaging 20.7 points and 7.8 assists per game, ranking sixth in scoring and second in assists. She recently became the first player in WNBA history to record 40 points and 10 assists in a single game.