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Meet the NBA's Top 3-Point Contenders

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 3:32 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

Meet the Contenders: A Player-by-Player Breakdown

The eight participants - Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Ja Morant, Tyrese Haliburton, Devin Booker, Jalen Williamson, and Scottie Barnes - represent a diverse range of shooting styles and team philosophies.

• Damian Lillard: Arguably the frontrunner, 'Dame Time' has already proven his mettle in this competition. His deep range is legendary, and his confidence under pressure is unwavering. A repeat victory would cement his legacy as one of the greatest shooters of his generation. He isn't just a shooter; he's a shot maker, often creating space and launching from well beyond the arc.

• Donovan Mitchell: Mitchell's aggressive shooting style and sheer volume of three-point attempts make him a constant threat. While consistency can sometimes be an issue, his peak performances are explosive, and his range extends comfortably beyond the three-point line. He represents the modern archetype of a scoring guard who isn't afraid to take, and make, difficult shots.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: SGA is a true all-around player, and his shooting has improved dramatically in recent seasons. He's not just a catch-and-shoot player; he's adept at creating his own opportunities and hitting shots off the dribble. This versatility could give him an edge in the contest format.

• Ja Morant: The most athletic player in the field, Morant's participation is a fascinating wildcard. He's not known primarily as a three-point shooter, but his dedication to expanding his range is well-documented. If he can find his rhythm, his athleticism and showmanship could captivate the audience.

• Tyrese Haliburton: Haliburton is quickly establishing himself as one of the league's most efficient and accurate shooters. A true floor general, he excels at making smart decisions and finding open looks for himself and his teammates. His smooth stroke and consistent form make him a serious contender.

• Devin Booker: A proven scorer with a silky-smooth shooting stroke, Booker rarely disappoints. He's a reliable shooter from all areas of the court and has a knack for hitting clutch shots. His experience and composure will serve him well under the bright lights.

• Jalen Williamson: As a rookie, Williamson is the youngest participant and an exciting new face. While his three-point percentage may not be elite, his potential is undeniable, and he'll be eager to prove himself on the national stage. He's a player to watch for the future, and a strong showing here could catapult his profile.

• Scottie Barnes: Barnes is a unique player - a versatile forward who can handle the ball, pass, and shoot. While not a pure shooter, he's been steadily improving his long-range game and adds a different dimension to the competition with his size and athleticism.

The Evolution of the 3-Point Contest & NBA Shooting

The NBA's emphasis on the three-point shot has transformed the game over the past decade. Teams now prioritize spacing, ball movement, and the ability to shoot from long range. The 3-Point Contest reflects this evolution. Where once it might have featured players known primarily for their mid-range game, it now showcases a roster of players who are lethal from beyond the arc. The scoring numbers across the league have steadily risen, and three-point shooting is no longer a luxury - it's a necessity.

This year's field exemplifies this trend. The presence of players like Haliburton and Gilgeous-Alexander, who are not just shooters but all-around playmakers, highlights the increasing importance of versatility. The contest is becoming less about sheer volume and more about efficiency, accuracy, and the ability to create shots under pressure. The rookie, Williamson, represents the next generation of players who have grown up honing their three-point skills from a young age.

The 2026 contest will be a thrilling display of shooting prowess, but it's also a reminder of how much the game of basketball has changed - and continues to change. The focus on the three-point shot is here to stay, and the players competing this weekend are at the forefront of this exciting new era.