Sabrina Ionescu Sets All-Time Record in WNBA and NBA 3-Point Contest
Liberty superstar Sabrina Ionescu made history on Friday by setting the all-time record for the WNBA and NBA 3-Point Contest. With an impressive performance, she scored 37 points in the final round, surpassing the previous record held by Warriors champion Stephen Curry and Pacers All-Star Tyrese Haliburton, who both had 31 points in a single round in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
This victory marks Ionescu’s first career win in the 3-point contest, solidifying her status as one of the league’s top shooters. Her incredible shooting display captivated fans at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas and showcased her exceptional skills beyond her playmaking abilities.
In addition to Ionescu’s record-breaking performance, the All-Star Skills Challenge took place, with Aces All-Stars Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray emerging as the winners. They defeated Ionescu and her Liberty teammate Courtney Vandersloot to claim the title.
The Aces have been dominant at home this season, boasting an undefeated record of 11-0 entering the All-Star Break. Gray and Plum continued their winning streak by displaying their exceptional skills in the skills challenge. They had the fastest time in the first round and Gray impressively made every jumper on her first attempt in the final round, securing victory for the Aces with more than 10 seconds to spare.
Plum faced some difficulties with her jumper, missing all of her 3-point attempts throughout both rounds and even failing to convert a layup in the opening round. However, she persevered with determination, relying on her speed to make up for missed shots. Her mantra of “Run fast. When I miss shots, run faster” kept her team in the competition and ultimately contributed to their success.
While Ionescu and Vandersloot fell short in the Skills Challenge, Ionescu ensured she didn’t leave the All-Star festivities empty-handed. She showcased her shooting prowess and accuracy, missing only two shots during the contest. The crowd at Michelob ULTRA Arena erupted in applause as Ionescu’s exceptional performance unfolded before their eyes. Reflecting on her achievement, Ionescu humbly stated, “I was just focused on getting them up one at a time. I wasn’t sure how many I missed, but I knew it wasn’t a lot.”
Ionescu’s confidence was evident throughout the event, as she had previously impressed during a run-through after a New York practice. Her stellar performance on Friday demonstrated her ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
As the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the showcase of talent and skills from the league’s top players. The game will take place on Saturday at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas at 8:30 p.m. ET.
In conclusion, Sabrina Ionescu’s record-breaking performance in the WNBA and NBA 3-Point Contest has solidified her status as one of the league’s most exceptional shooters. Her victory marks a significant milestone in her career, and she continues to impress fans with her remarkable skills on the court. As the All-Star Game approaches, basketball enthusiasts eagerly await the display of talent and excitement that this event promises to deliver.