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NBA 3-Point Contest: Who Will Reign Supreme in 2026?

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 1:08 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: North Carolina, Utah, Indiana, UNITED STATES

Indianapolis, IN - February 13th, 2026 - As the NBA All-Star Weekend approaches, anticipation is building for the annual 3-point contest, a showcase of shooting prowess that consistently captivates fans. Recent comments from Charlotte Hornets assistant coach Steve Clifford, highlighting Grant Riller and Luke Kennard as potential contenders, have sparked a wider conversation about who truly stands out as the favorites to claim the crown this year. While Clifford's observations are insightful - particularly noting Kennard's exceptional form and Riller's quick release - the field of elite shooters has expanded significantly since the 2023-24 season, demanding a more comprehensive look at the likely contenders for the 2026 title.

Luke Kennard, mentioned by Clifford, remains a strong prospect. His 43.4% 3-point percentage and career-high 243 made three-pointers in 2023-24 established him as a legitimate threat. However, consistency is key in the contest, and his performance in subsequent seasons has been variable, fluctuating with his role and minutes played on the Clippers. As of the current 2025-26 season, Kennard is averaging a solid 38.2% from beyond the arc, placing him within the top 20 in the league, but facing stiff competition.

Grant Riller, lauded by Clifford for his quick release, represents an intriguing dark horse. While he hasn't consistently been a high-volume shooter in the NBA, his practice habits and coach's confidence suggest a hidden talent for long-range accuracy. However, a lack of significant game experience and pressure in a high-stakes environment could prove detrimental. Riller will need to demonstrate consistent performance throughout the remainder of the season to secure a spot in the contest, let alone be considered a serious threat.

Looking beyond these two, several other players have emerged as legitimate contenders. Damian Lillard, now with the Milwaukee Bucks, is a perennial favorite. Despite a slight dip in his percentage in recent years, his sheer volume of attempts and reputation for deep-range shooting make him a dangerous opponent. His experience in the contest, while not always resulting in a win, provides invaluable composure.

Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks is another name to watch. His flashy style and confidence are perfectly suited for the spectacle of the 3-point contest. Young's range extends well beyond the arc, and his ability to create space for his shot is exceptional. However, critics point to his sometimes inconsistent shot selection as a potential weakness.

Stephen Curry, a two-time 3-point contest champion, is always a factor if he chooses to participate. While he's prioritized team success over individual accolades in recent years, his unmatched shooting ability makes him an instant favorite whenever he steps onto the court. His influence on the modern game and mastery of the three-point shot are undeniable.

Rising stars are also entering the conversation. Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves has dramatically improved his three-point shooting, becoming a crucial component of their offense. His athleticism and competitive spirit would undoubtedly translate well to the contest environment. Desmond Bane of the Memphis Grizzlies is another young shooter with impressive accuracy and consistency. He's quickly becoming known as one of the league's most reliable long-range threats.

The 3-point contest isn't simply about percentage; it's about rhythm, consistency under pressure, and the ability to perform when it matters most. The unique format, with its different racks and scoring zones, requires a diverse skillset. Players who excel at quickly finding their range and adapting to changing conditions are often the most successful. The competition's increasing difficulty and depth make predicting a winner increasingly challenging. The evolution of the game itself, with an emphasis on spacing and three-point shooting, means the level of talent participating in the contest continues to rise.

The All-Star Saturday night event, scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET in Indianapolis, promises to be a thrilling display of shooting artistry. While Clifford's early assessment points to Kennard and Riller as potential challengers, the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest is shaping up to be a battle between established stars, rising talents, and perhaps a surprising underdog.