Sabrina Ionescu Joins 3-Point Contest with Sonya Citron — WNBA Holding Its Breath as Caitlin Clark’s Status Remains Uncertain

With All-Star Weekend descending on Indianapolis, the energy is sky-high — but one massive question still hangs in the air: Will Caitlin Clark enter the 3-Point Contest?

As the lights go up Friday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the WNBA’s brightest shooters will take center stage in the Skills Challenge and 3-Point Contest. Two names are confirmed: Sabrina Ionescu, the reigning queen of the arc, and Sonya Citron, a rising rookie sniper from Washington. But fans — and the league itself — are waiting on the name that could make this a ratings juggernaut: Caitlin Clark.

And right now, the answer is still unclear.

😬 Clark’s Health a Growing Concern

Clark has reportedly been nursing a nagging lower-body injury for weeks — possibly a quad or groin strain — that has impacted her mechanics and long-range shooting. She went just 2-for-7 from deep in her most recent outing, and insiders say the Indiana Fever are treading carefully. The risk of aggravation in a rapid-fire event like the 3-Point Contest is real.

“Six weeks ago? She’s in without question,” one league insider said. “But now? If she’s not 100% and her shot isn’t falling, is it worth it — even in her home city?”

🧨 Sabrina’s Return Raises the Stakes

The pressure ratcheted up when Sabrina Ionescu officially committed. The Liberty star is one of the most iconic shooters in the game, fresh off a record-breaking 37-point outing in the 2023 contest — the highest score ever posted in either the NBA or WNBA. Her head-to-head battle with Steph Curry last All-Star weekend became an instant classic.

Ionescu is averaging 19.4 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.6 made threes this season — and she’s coming to Indy as the woman to beat.

Meanwhile, Sonya Citron, while lesser known, is emerging fast. Averaging 1.6 threes per game, the rookie brings a fresh, fearless edge to the contest — and could play spoiler.

But even with that firepower, there’s still a Clark-sized hole on the marquee.

🏀 If Not Clark… Then Who?

If Clark opts out, expect Kelsey Mitchell to be the Fever’s replacement pick. She’s one of the most consistent shooters in the league and has the hometown appeal the contest would need. Other options like Lexie Hull or Sophie Cunningham may draw consideration, but Mitchell’s numbers — and swagger — put her at the front of the line.

Still, let’s be honest: no one moves the needle like Caitlin Clark.

👑 The Weight of the Moment

Clark’s deep bombs and logo threes are tailor-made for this event. She’s a walking highlight reel, a pressure-tested performer, and the undisputed face of the league’s rookie revolution. The chance to have her shoot under the All-Star lights, in front of her home crowd, is the stuff of WNBA dreams.

But with the playoffs looming and Indiana fighting for seeding, Clark may prioritize recovery. Last season, she exploded after the break — boosting her scoring average and leading Iowa on a historic tear. Could this be a strategic pause before another second-half surge?

🚨 The Spotlight Still Waits

The ratings potential is massive. The stakes are high. Could this weekend break 4 million viewers? Maybe more?

With Sabrina back, Citron surging, and Clark’s shadow looming over it all, the 3-Point Contest is already promising. But one decision could turn it from exciting to iconic.

The stage is set. The crowd is ready.
The league is watching.

Will Caitlin Clark take the shot — or pass?