Dallas Wings guard Azzi Fudd made history on Friday night in Chicago by becoming the first rookie to win the WNBA All-Star 3-point contest, according to ESPN. Fudd, the No. 1 pick in the WNBA draft, scored 30 points in the championship round to capture the trophy at Wintrust Arena during the 2026 WNBA All-Star weekend.
Azzi Fudd Makes History as First Rookie to Win 3-Point Contest
Fudd hit her first six shots in the final round to establish her rhythm, ultimately making 20 of 26 shots, including eight of her final 10 three-pointers. Her 30-point championship round matched Sabrina Ionescu’s winning total from the previous season and equaled Allie Quigley’s mark, standing as tied for the second-most points ever scored in the event.
I was shocked, that’s crazy to be the first is definitely an honor,
Fudd said of her milestone victory.
Championship Showdown Against Bridget Carleton
Fudd edged out Portland Fire forward Bridget Carleton in the final round. Carleton put on a stellar performance in the opening round, scoring 29 points after hitting 13 of her first 16 shots and bringing the crowd—which included NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Jayson Tatum, Russell Westbrook, Dwyane Wade, and Sheryl Swoopes—to its feet. However, Carleton got off to a slow start in the final round and finished with 19 points.
The six-player field for the State Farm WNBA 3-Point Contest also featured Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard (who scored 20 points), Golden State Valkyries forward Janelle Salaün (19 points), Toronto Tempo guard Marina Mabrey (18 points), and Seattle Storm guard Natisha Hiedeman (17 points). All six participants entered the competition ranking among the league’s most productive three-point shooters for the season.
Increased Payouts Under the New CBA
Fudd received $20,000 from the league for winning the 3-point contest, while each participant received $10,000—about eight times last season’s prize money. Additionally, corporate sponsor Aflac awarded Fudd an extra $40,000 for the victory, while Carleton took home $30,000 for finishing second and Howard received $15,000 for placing third.
Call Out for a Rematch With Steph Curry
Fresh off her record-setting victory, Fudd used her post-event media availability to issue a playful challenge to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, asking for a rematch of a shooting contest the two previously participated in when Fudd attended Curry’s camp as a 15-year-old high school student.
I mean Steph if you’re listening, I'm asking for a rematch,
Fudd said, suggesting it was time for the two to face off again. Looking ahead to the future, Fudd also stated she would be honored to return next year to defend her title if invited.
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