The lineup for the 2026 WNBA All-Star 3-point contest has sparked discussion, particularly due to the absence of New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu. Ahead of the Liberty-Sky game on Wednesday, July 23, 2026, Ionescu addressed rumors suggesting she declined to participate in the contest held in Chicago.

"Never got invited," the defending 3-point contest champion told reporters during her pregame media availability. She emphasized, "I can't decline an offer I never got officially invited to. So was pretty surprised to see that. Never got invited. I just kind of wanted to set the record straight."

Ionescu, who has won the 3-point contest twice, including a record-setting 37-point performance in 2023, expressed excitement for the current participants and the prospect of a new winner. "Like that was just false, but I'm really excited for the participants in it, and obviously there's going to be a new winner, so I'm excited to see who wins."

She also hinted at future opportunities, saying, "Maybe I'll do it with Steph again at NBA All-Star and get a really nice official invite."

Other notable players such as Caitlin Clark and Kayla McBride reportedly declined invitations, with McBride stating via social media that her agent informed her about the event only 48 hours before her Instagram Story post, without a formal invitation.

Ionescu's comments come amid ongoing conversations about the WNBA All-Star 3-point contest lineup and highlight the importance of clear communication regarding event invitations.

Sources