The Evolution of the Three-Point Contest
The Three-Point Contest debuted in 1986 and has become a fan-favorite All-Star Weekend event. The format features players shooting from five rack positions around the arc, each with four regular balls (1 point) and one "money ball" (2 points). Recent additions include special mountain racks worth extra points.
Stephen Curry's performances have been iconic, but the 2024 edition featured a historic crossover when WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu competed in a special challenge. Explore more All-Star events including the Slam Dunk Contest and Skills Challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has won the most Three-Point Contests?
Craig Hodges and Larry Bird each won three consecutive Three-Point Contests (Hodges 1990-92, Bird 1986-88). Stephen Curry has won twice.
What is the highest score ever in the Three-Point Contest?
Devin Booker scored 28 in the final round in 2018, and Stephen Curry matched that. The all-time record for a single round is debated due to format changes over the years.
How does the scoring work?
Players shoot from 5 positions with 5 balls each (4 regular worth 1 point, 1 money ball worth 2 points). The maximum possible score per rack is 6, for a total of 30 per round. Some years have added bonus racks.
Has a non-guard ever won the Three-Point Contest?
Yes. Karl-Anthony Towns (center) won in 2022, proving that three-point shooting has become a skill for all positions in the modern NBA.