Allisha Gray wins skills challenge

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PHOENIX — Both Lynx guard Kayla McBride and Mystics center Stefanie Dolson, who are among the WNBA’s leaders in three-pointers this season, will be participating in the 3-point contest on Friday night as part of All-Star weekend in Phoenix. However, two other prominent players, Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark and New York Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu, the defending three-point champion, have opted out of the contest. Clark mentioned on Wednesday that she wanted to focus on Saturday’s All-Star game, while Ionescu is preparing for the Paris Olympics with Team USA.

Joining McBride and Dolson in Friday’s event are Liberty center Jonquel Jones, Atlanta Dream guard Allisha Gray, and Connecticut Sun guard Marina Mabrey.

Stay updated on all the action from Phoenix with live updates from USA TODAY Sports.

What time is the 3-point contest?

The WNBA three-point contest will take place on Friday, July 19, after the All-Star skills challenge, which starts at 9 p.m. ET

How to watch WNBA skills challenge, 3-point contest: TV channel, stream

The contest will be broadcasted on ESPN, and you can stream it live on the ESPN app, ESPN+, and Fubo (free trial).

Cheryl Miller receives standing ovation in Phoenix

Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller, the coach of Team WNBA, was given a standing ovation on Friday. Miller, who served as the first-ever head coach and general manager of the Phoenix Mercury from 1997 to 2000, was celebrated by the sold-out crowd at Footprint Center.

Flau’jae Johnson, a former teammate of LSU basketball star Hailey Van Lith, was seen cheering for Van Lith during the 3×3 challenge in Phoenix. Van Lith, a member of Team USA’s 3×3 basketball team, participated in an exhibition match at Footprint Center on Friday.

Allisha Gray emerges victorious in WNBA All-Star skills challenge

Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray won the WNBA All-Star skills challenge by 2.4 seconds, defeating Phoenix Mercury’s Sophie Cunningham in the finals.

Allisha Gray, Sophie Cunningham advance to skills challenge final

The timed obstacle course includes various tasks, with the top two performers advancing to the final round.

WNBA 3-point contest rules

The guidelines for the WNBA 3-point contest involve a two-round, timed competition with ball racks placed at different shooting locations around the three-point arc.

Who is competing in the WNBA 3-point contest?

The participants in the WNBA 3-point contest include Jonquel Jones, Stefanie Dolson, Kayla McBride, Allisha Gray, and Marina Mabrey.

Why isn’t Caitlin Clark in WNBA 3-point contest?

Caitlin Clark decided to skip the WNBA All-Star 3-point contest to prioritize rest, despite being invited to participate.

Who won the 3-point contest last year?

Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty emerged victorious in the 2023 All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas, setting a record for the most points scored.

Why isn’t Sabrina Ionescu in WNBA 3-point contest?

Sabrina Ionescu declined the invitation to defend her All-Star 3-point contest title to focus on preparing for the Paris Olympics with Team USA.

Kelsey Mitchell replaces Erica Wheeler in skills challenge

Indiana Fever’s Erica Wheeler was unable to participate in the skills challenge, and her teammate Kelsey Mitchell filled in for her.

WNBA All-Star weekend schedule

The WNBA All-Star game this year features a unique matchup between the All-Stars and the U.S. Women’s National Team. This will also be the first time fans will see young superstars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese in an All-Star game.

How much do WNBA All-Stars earn?

WNBA All-Star game participants earn $2,575 each, with the MVP receiving an additional $5,150. Participants in the Skills Competition and 3-point contest earn $1,030 each, and winners receive $2,575 from the league.