The NBA All-Star Weekend has always been the backdrop of many iconic moments. From Allen Iverson’s 2001 MVP comeback to Shaq and Kobe Bryant’s reunion in 2009. And last year, the spotlight was on Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu’s 3-point showdown. With the elevation of WNBA’s popularity, fans also expected ROTY Caitlin Clark to enter the contest this year. The result? Rejection from both Caitlin and the New York Liberty guard.

Rumors were flying around on the NBA vs WNBA 3-point contest making its return. Unexpectedly, both Stephen Curry and Sabrina Ionescu weren’t fond of doing the same thing again. Putting things into perspective, Caitlin’s refusal to participate might play a big role in them being reluctant and the contest being completely scrapped.

Tough call for the NBA commissioner Adam Silver! Speaking to the Athletic, NBA spokesman Mike Bass said, “We weren’t able to land on a plan we thought would raise the bar off of last year’s special moment. We all agreed not to proceed and will instead keep the focus on All-Star Sunday’s new format,” The new format reportedly comprises a mini-tournament where four teams will compete against one another. The best part? 24 of the league’s top players in those teams!

As rumors die, speculations rise. Recalling that time, Sabrina was asked whom she would choose for a 2 vs 2 3-pointer rematch. That is if it were to happen. She pointed to Caitlin without missing a beat. The Caitlin who is known for her logo 3s? Anyone would do the same, right? Hence, fans were looking forward to a Steph Curry/Klay Thompson vs Caitlin Clark/ Sabrina Ionescu game. A dream lineup! That’s why fans were sent into a whirlwind upon learning of Caitlin’s decline of the offer. Her representatives explain that Caitlin prefers to make her professional 3-point contest debut at the WNBA All-Star events this July. Coincidentally, her home court in Indianapolis is this year’s host. All the more reason for her priority. Although many may not agree.

How did the Stephen Curry – Sabrina Ionescu’s contest transpire?

Can you believe it all started with a joke? You read that right. The first-of-its-kind contest between the NBA and WNBA happened because Ionescu jokingly challenged Curry on social media. the New York Liberty star is well aware of how some basketball fans think WNBA is inferior. So, she wants to change this narrative. What could be more honorable than to play against your idol? The Golden State Warriors’ Steph ‘two-time winner of the NBA’s 3-point challenge’ Curry.

Supporting her stance, Curry said, “You’ve got kids that are in gyms, boys and girls playing. Whatever else comes out of it, we’re going to continue to tap in and invest in moments like these that can move the needle.” As expected of Curry who advocates for the WNBA. The authenticity of the game drew in fans and experts alike, praising them both.

During the shootout, Steph and Ionescu threw their shots from the same NBA 3-point line. Speaking of 3-pointers, did you know WNBA’s 3-point line is positioned at 22 feet, 1.75 inches? And how is it relevant, you ask? Well, the NBA’s line is 1 foot, 9 inches longer.  In an impressive duel, Curry, 36 won against Ionescu, 27 by 3 points. Obviously, it became the main highlight of the night. No wonder, fans are visibly disappointed by this year’s cancellation. But hey! All hope is not lost. There’s the WNBA All-Star this summer and we get to see Ionescu and Caitlin on the same ground.

All Eyes on the Indiana Fever rising star – Caitlin Clark

The 2024 Rookie of the Year has been all the rage since she got drafted into the league. After four spectacular years at Iowa, she is now on her way to dominate the WNBA with Indiana Fever. An overstatement? Of course not! Not after she has broken decades-old records. And also named ‘Time’s 2024 Athlete of the Year’.

The logo 3s is her trademark. The mantra to her explosive popularity. Her outstanding shots from well beyond the arc drew in a massive influx of fans. It affected the league so much so that there is a steep increase in game attendance, online viewership and sales in merch. A never-seen popularity in the 28 years of the league’s existence! And of course, with the aim of uplifting it more.

The Fever is coming back for the playoffs after 8 years. Nonetheless, with a trump card. With Caitlin’s unmatched skills and dominance on the court, she carries the weight of bringing the championship back home. Will she be successful in her endeavor?