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Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu have sent shockwaves through the NBA world. In the previous year, Ionescu not only shattered Stephen Curry’s three-point contest record but also went on a rampage, setting the best mark across both the NBA and the WNBA. Since then, the two sharpshooters have engaged in friendly banter, teasing the possibility of a showdown from the three-point line. In a surprising turn of events, the NBA has now presented them the opportunity to face off during the highly anticipated 2024 All-Star Weekend.

Stephen Curry fans are buzzing with excitement, already speculating about the potential outcome. However, Sabrina has introduced a twist to the narrative. Despite the WNBA’s standard of shooting from the 20-ft line, she expressed her desire to waive those standards and compete from the original 23-ft three-point line. When a reporter brought this up and asked for Kerr’s remarks, he promptly conveyed his enthusiasm, “I’m envisioning a Bobby Riggs versus Billie Jean King from 1973. Maybe it is the modern-day ‘battle of the sexes.'”

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The historic Battle of the Sexes unfolded on September 20, 1973. It featured Bobby Riggs, former No. 1 ranked men’s tennis player, against the top women’s tennis player, Billie Jean King. The monumental event stands as one of the most-watched games in sports history, drawing a crowd of over 30,000 spectators, with a staggering 90 million people through telecasts.

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King secured a victory over Riggs in straight sets, with 6–4, 6–3, 6–3. She contributed her triumph as a leap forward for women’s tennis and their self-esteem. King’s win legitimized women’s tennis and is also credited for empowering women to advocate for equality.

Looking at Stephen Curry and Sabrina’s stats

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Sabrina Ionescu is 26 years old and will face a veteran Stephen Curry, 35. While Steph holds the edge with his seasoned experience, Sabrina brings a youthful energy to the court. However, in the realm of the three-point game, both players have the potential to shine; it only takes a spark.

Over her career, Sabrina has played just over 100 games, boasting a 37.7% three-point shooting accuracy. In contrast, Stephen Curry shoots at a better clip, with over 900 games under his belt, he maintains 42.6% from beyond the arc. Regardless, this season, Sabrina has elevated her three-point game to an outstanding 44.8%, surpassing even her field goal percentage, showcasing her growth as a sniper.

On the other hand, Steph’s three-point efficiency has dipped this season to 40.3% along with his field goal percentage. However, he holds a plethora of career accolades, including multiple 3-point contest titles, as opposed to Sabrina’s one.

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Nevertheless, given their talents, and the fact that they have an affinity for the long range, both players are more than capable of emerging victorious in the crowning competition.