Steph Curry narrowly defeats Sabrina Ionescu in NBA vs. WNBA three-point contest
In a highly anticipated showdown, Steph Curry emerged victorious over Sabrina Ionescu in the first-ever NBA vs. WNBA three-point contest during All-Star Weekend. The Golden State Warriors star secured a narrow win, scoring 29 points compared to Ionescu’s 26.
The clash between Curry and Ionescu settled a long-running debate about who is the best three-point shooter between NBA and WNBA players. Both athletes are renowned for their sharpshooting abilities, making this matchup a dream crossover for basketball fans.
Curry, a two-time NBA three-point contest champion and the record holder for the most career three-pointers made in the league, faced off against Ionescu, who set the WNBA record for most three-pointers in a single season in 2023. Additionally, Ionescu holds the WNBA and NBA all-time record score in the three-point contest, achieving an impressive 37 out of 40 points last season.
To level the playing field, Curry shot NBA balls from the NBA three-point line, while Ionescu used the WNBA equivalents, which have a slightly closer line and smaller ball size. Despite the differences, Ionescu expressed confidence in her abilities and even announced on social media that she would shoot from the NBA line.
The contest not only showcased the skills of these two exceptional athletes but also had a philanthropic aspect. Both Curry and Ionescu’s respective charities received donations from the NBA and WNBA. Additionally, they had the opportunity to raise money for the NBA Foundation, which aims to promote economic empowerment in the Black community. Each regular shot was worth $1,000, every money ball $2,000, and a special 29-foot-9-inch three-pointer called the “STARRY Range Ball” was worth $3,000.
Following his victory, Curry expressed his admiration for the event and Ionescu’s performance. He praised her for setting the bar high and suggested that similar matchups should occur more frequently in the future.
The NBA All-Star Weekend featured various other exciting events. The traditional three-point contest saw Damian Lillard successfully defend his title, becoming the first player since 2008 to win back-to-back crowns. The weekend culminated in the All-Star Game, where the best players from the Eastern and Western Conferences competed against each other. Notably, Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James captained their respective teams.
The weekend also included a showcase of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) with a game between Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State. The Skills Challenge and Slam Dunk competition further highlighted the players’ talents.
On Sunday, the G League, the NBA’s minor league affiliate, hosted its own series of events before the highly anticipated All-Star Game took place.
The NBA vs. WNBA three-point contest was a thrilling event that showcased the incredible shooting skills of Steph Curry and Sabrina Ionescu. It not only settled a long-standing debate but also raised funds for charitable causes. As fans eagerly await future matchups between NBA and WNBA stars, this contest will be remembered as a historic moment in basketball history.
