Caitlin Clark declines WNBA 3-Point Contest invitation, will still play in All-Star Game

Caitlin Clark turned down an invite to the WNBA 3-Point Contest but will captain a team in the All-Star Game.

Caitlin Clark, one of the WNBA's most-watched players, has declined her invitation to participate in the league's 3-Point Contest during All-Star Weekend in Chicago. The league announced the full contestant lineup on Tuesday, with Clark's name absent from the field. Clark's Fever teammates Aaliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell are also not included in the contest. Clark will still take a prominent role at All-Star Weekend, captaining a team in Saturday's main event under coach Teresa Weatherspoon at Wintrust Arena. She is a three-time WNBA All-Star. Also missing from the 3-Point Contest are two other high-profile players — Sabrina Ionescu and Paige Bueckers. No reason for Clark's declination was reported by either source. The absence of Clark, Ionescu, and Bueckers means the contest will go on without several of the sport's biggest names.

Why it matters

Clark is among the WNBA's highest-profile players and a major television draw, so her absence from a marquee skills event is notable for fan interest and broadcast viewership. The contest still proceeds, but without several of the sport's most recognized names.

What's next

The 3-Point Contest and All-Star Game are scheduled to take place at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, with Clark captaining a team in Saturday's All-Star Game.

Key facts

Bias & framing notes

Fox News framed Clark's absence as a 'major blow' to All-Star Weekend and specifically to ESPN, adding an editorial spin not present in the WISH TV report. WISH TV reported the same core facts straightforwardly without characterizing the impact. Neither source provided a reason for Clark's decision.

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