Why is Caitlin Clark not participating in the 3-point contest for the WNBA All-Star friday?

The 2025 WNBA All-Star Weekend officially tips off on Friday and runs through Sunday, promising a packed slate of events. One of the most anticipated competitions is the 3-Point Contest, but it arrives with an unexpected twist: Caitlin Clark, one of the league’s most electric shooters, will not be participating.

While Clark’s absence is a major storyline, the contest will still feature a highly competitive field. Her elite shooting has captivated fans throughout the season—especially after her memorable battle with Stephen Curry—but this year’s spotlight will shift to other sharpshooters aiming to seize the moment.

Lexie Hull will make her debut in the 3-point shootout, going head-to-head with some of the league’s top perimeter threats. The lineup includes defending champion Allisha Gray of the Atlanta Dream, 2023 winner Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty, Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum (making her second appearance), and Washington Mystics rookie Sonia Citron, who’s shooting 36.5% from deep and was recently named an All-Star.

Why is Caitlin Clark not participating?

Clark, currently one of the premier talents in the WNBA, sparked concern after sustaining an injury during the Indiana Fever’s most recent matchup with the Connecticut Sun. Observers noted she appeared to be dealing with a lingering groin issue, which has affected her mobility in recent games.

Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever walks off of the court after a game against the Connecticut Sun during the second half at the TD Garden on July 15, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

With the second half of the season looming, Clark and the Fever are focused on making a postseason push. The team currently sits sixth in the WNBA standings, and each game from here on out is crucial in their quest to secure a higher playoff seed.

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“I have to rest my body,” Clark said. “I will still be at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for all the action, and I’m looking forward to helping Sandy [Brondello] coach our team to a win. Can’t wait to see you all out there!”

What did she say about the All-Star festivities?

Fans had been eagerly waiting for news of Clark’s involvement in All-Star Weekend events, especially her potential appearance in the 3-point contest and All-Star Game itself. Unfortunately, the Fever issued a statement confirming her withdrawal from both, dampening the excitement of many supporters.

“I’m so excited for Indy to host WNBA All-Star this weekend. I want to thank the Indianapolis Host Committee and all of the people that have put endless work in over the past year to put this event together. I know this will be the best All-Star yet. I am incredibly sad and disappointed to say I can’t participate in the 3-Point Contest or the All-Star Game,” Clark said in a statement shared on the Fever’s official social media channels.