Caitlin Clark was set to join an elite group of sharpshooters—Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Sabrina Ionescu—for a historic three-point contest at the NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco. Fans were eagerly anticipating the event, expecting an electrifying showdown. However, just days before the weekend, Clark made a surprising decision: she declined the invitation.
So, why did she back out? The reasoning behind her decision comes down to her usual shooting routine. Unlike the All-Star contest format, which features players shooting from ball racks, Clark focuses on catch-and-shoot or off-the-dribble three-pointers. Adjusting to a different shooting setup didn’t align with her approach. It wasn’t about lacking interest in the event but rather a reluctance to disrupt what has been working for her.
Caitlin Clark is leaning against joining the NBA All-Star 3-point contest with Steph Curry, Klay Thompson & Sabrina Ionescu 🏀
Sources say she prefers in-game shooting styles over ball-rack 3s, but talks with the league are ongoing.
📰 @TomFriendWriterhttps://t.co/76caYjDPx9
— Sports Business Journal (@SBJ) January 29, 2025
Sources close to Clark indicated that she was unwilling to alter her routine for a one-time contest. Despite this, the NBA is still engaging with her representatives in hopes of a last-minute change of heart.
While Clark’s absence is a blow to the All-Star Weekend lineup, it’s not entirely unexpected. The NBA has been working to create more crossover events between the NBA and WNBA, aiming to draw in a broader audience and showcase the talent in both leagues. Last year’s matchup between Curry and Ionescu was a massive hit, and the league had hoped to replicate that success with Clark, who has rapidly become one of the most exciting shooters in the game. Her participation would have been a significant moment for both leagues, elevating visibility and excitement.
Even though this opportunity won’t happen this time, the effort to bridge the NBA and WNBA continues. Whether Clark reconsiders in the future remains to be seen, but for now, she’s choosing to stick with what works best for her game.