NBA vs. WNBA 3-Point Challenge Set for All-Star Weekend: Curry vs. Ionescu Showdown

In a historic development, the NBA has officially announced the “Stephen vs. Sabrina” 3-Point Challenge, marking the first-ever NBA vs. WNBA 3-point contest to take place at the upcoming All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis on Feb. 17. The highly anticipated matchup will feature NBA legend Steph Curry and WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu, adding an exciting twist to the traditional All-Star festivities.

The groundwork for this unique showdown was laid over the past several months, with Ionescu challenging Curry to a shooting contest on social media last July. Curry, acknowledging the challenge, expressed his eagerness to compete against Ionescu after her record-breaking performance in the WNBA 3-point contest.

The event will be positioned between the NBA’s 3-Point Contest and Slam Dunk Contest on All-Star Saturday Night, starting at 8 p.m. ET on TNT. The 3-Point Challenge will follow standard rules, but with an intriguing twist – Curry will use an NBA ball and NBA 3-point lines, while Ionescu will utilize a WNBA ball and WNBA 3-point lines.

Beyond the competition, each made shot during the challenge will contribute to raising funds for “economic empowerment in the Black community.” The fundraising format includes regular 3-pointers worth $1,000, money balls valued at $2,000, and “STARRY Range Balls” – deep shots worth three points – earning $3,000 each.

The record for the most points scored in a round at a professional 3-point contest currently belongs to Sabrina Ionescu, who scored an impressive 37 points in July’s WNBA 3-point contest. Despite Curry’s status as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Ionescu’s record-setting performance adds an extra layer of anticipation to the event.

This innovative addition to the NBA’s All-Star Weekend brings renewed excitement to the festivities, showcasing a cross-league competition that transcends the traditional East vs. West format. The “Stephen vs. Sabrina” 3-Point Challenge promises to be a captivating battle between two of the most prolific shooters in the basketball world.