Full Breakdown
Azzi Fudd Becomes First Rookie to Win WNBA All-Star 3-Point Contest
7/25/2026, 12:14:35 PM
Rookie Triumph in the 3-Point Shootout
Dallas Wings guard Azzi Fudd captured the WNBA All-Star 3-point shooting contest, becoming the first rookie in league history to do so. In the final round she scored 30 of a possible 40 points, missing only six of 27 attempts to defeat Portland Fire forward Bridget Carleton, who finished with 19 points. Fudd’s performance tied for the second-highest total ever in the event, matching the 30-point outings of Sabrina Ionescu and Allie Quigley.
Competition Format and Context
The All-Star weekend featured a two-round, timed shooting competition. Participants had 70 seconds to shoot from seven spots, with each location worth two, three, or four points. The event replaced the previous skills challenge and was the first year the 3-point contest used the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) prize structure, which significantly increased payouts compared to the prior season.
Data & Statistics
- Fudd: 30 points in the final, 6 misses of 27 shots; 24 points in the opening round, four of her final five shots made.
- Carleton: 29 points in the opening round, 13 of 16 first-round shots; 19 points in the final.
- Other finalists: Rhyne Howard, Janelle Salaun, Marina Mabrey, Natisha Heideman.
- Fudd ranks 10th in the league with 2.2 three-pointers per game and 53 total makes this season.
- The 30-point total is the second-most ever, behind Ionescu’s 37-point record set in 2023.
Official Statements & Responses
Elena Delle Donne, a WNBA Hall of Famer who competed in the Shooting Stars competition the same night, said she “loved it” and hoped the event was enjoyable for viewers, emphasizing the chance to “lead the next generation” of players. The new CBA guaranteed a baseline prize for the 3-point winner, and Aflac contributed additional sponsorship money to the overall prize pool.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact payout to Fudd. One report states she earned $70,000 total, with $30,000 guaranteed by the CBA. Another source claims the CBA provided $20,000 for the win plus $10,000 for each participant, and that Fudd ultimately took home $40,000. The discrepancy highlights a lack of clear, unified reporting on the revised prize structure.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You say 'only' six shots, but I feel like that was a lot,” — Azzi Fudd
- “But honestly, I was really nervous. I was excited.” — Azzi Fudd
- “I was shocked, that’s crazy to be the first is definitely an honor,” — Azzi Fudd
- “I mean Steph if you’re listening, I’m asking for a rematch,” — Azzi Fudd
