Stephen Curry to Participate in 3-Point Contest
Locales: California, Ohio, UNITED STATES

San Francisco, CA - February 16, 2026 - The NBA world is buzzing today after Stephen Curry, the undisputed king of the three-point shot, announced his intention to participate in the 3-point contest at next year's All-Star Weekend. The Golden State Warriors superstar, speaking after practice Monday, emphatically stated, "I'll be there," ending years of speculation and disappointing fans eager to witness his mastery in the competition.
Curry's announcement marks a significant shift in his approach to All-Star Weekend. For years, he politely but firmly declined invitations to the 3-point contest, prioritizing rest and recovery during the mid-season break. While understandable given the physical demands of an NBA season, his absence left a void in what many consider the most exciting event of All-Star Saturday Night.
"I've missed out on a lot of fun," Curry admitted, acknowledging the regret he felt about passing on previous opportunities. "I felt like I needed to, at times, prioritize rest and recovery, and that's what it was. But I definitely regret missing out on those opportunities."
This isn't simply a change of heart; it's a strategic return by a player keenly aware of the impact he has on the game and its fans. The 3-point contest, while always popular, has experienced a distinct resurgence in recent years. The rise of analytically driven offenses in the NBA, and the increased emphasis on the three-point shot as a core component of winning strategies, have naturally elevated the contest's profile. Players like Zach LaVine, Damian Lillard, and most recently, Malik Beasley, have delivered spectacular performances that captivated audiences and reignited interest. But none possess the gravitational pull of Stephen Curry.
Curry's participation isn't just about adding another name to the field; it's about elevating the entire event to a new level. He isn't just a great shooter; he's the great shooter. His influence on the modern game is undeniable, inspiring countless young players to emulate his range, technique, and sheer shooting volume. Seeing him compete will be more than just a contest; it will be a celebration of the artistry of shooting.
Coach Steve Kerr, ever the pragmatist, offered a humorous response to the announcement. "He's gotta practice first," Kerr quipped, hinting that even a generational talent needs to sharpen his skills for the intense pressure of the competition. Kerr, who has coached Curry for nearly a decade, understands better than anyone the dedication and work ethic required to maintain such a high level of performance.
Looking back at Curry's history in the contest, his pedigree is well established. He has participated four times, claiming victory in 2015 - his second consecutive title. He was also a runner-up in 2010 and 2011, demonstrating his consistent ability to perform under the bright lights. However, the game has evolved since his last appearance. The scoring format has been tweaked, and the competition has become increasingly fierce.
Now, many are predicting the NBA will modify the contest format further to accommodate and potentially challenge Curry. Ideas ranging from a "Curry Round" featuring shots from even further distances to a timed shooting element are already circulating online. The league recognizes the potential for record viewership and are likely considering all options to maximize the spectacle.
Beyond the immediate excitement, Curry's return signals a broader commitment from the league's biggest stars to engage with All-Star Weekend in a more meaningful way. For a period, some perceived the event as losing its luster, with top players opting for vacations over participation. But with Curry leading the charge, and other stars reportedly considering a greater involvement, the NBA seems poised to recapture the magic of its mid-season showcase. The 2027 All-Star Weekend is already shaping up to be an unforgettable event, and Stephen Curry's participation will undoubtedly be at the heart of it.
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