The slam dunk contest might be losing steam, but the NBA’s three-point shootout is heating up in a big way-and next year’s edition could be one for the ages.
Steph Curry, sidelined with an injury but never far from the spotlight, made headlines this weekend by revealing plans to return to the three-point contest during the 2025-26 All-Star Weekend in Phoenix. The two-time champ (2015, 2021) hasn’t competed in the event since his win five years ago, but he’s already laying the groundwork for a star-studded shootout-and he’s not planning to come alone.
Curry told reporters he’s aiming to recruit his longtime Splash Brother, Klay Thompson, who now suits up for the Dallas Mavericks. And he’s counting on reigning champ Damian Lillard to be back to defend his title. That’s already a trio of elite shooters with championship pedigree, but things got even more intriguing when Lillard shared a text exchange between him and Curry on Instagram that hinted at something even bigger.
“Next year… Me, you, Klay, Book (Devin Booker), and 4 more real shooters…,” Lillard texted. Curry’s reply?
“Yessir I’m in. Know Klay will do it if I ask and Book will be at home.
Perfect setup.”
Let’s break that down. We’re talking about four of the most lethal shooters in modern NBA history potentially squaring off in the same contest.
Curry-no introduction needed-is the league’s all-time leader in made threes and arguably the greatest shooter the game’s ever seen. Lillard, fresh off his third three-point contest title (2023, 2024, 2026), is tied with Larry Bird and Craig Hodges for the most wins in the event’s history.
One more, and he stands alone.
Klay Thompson? He won it in 2016 and once dropped 60 points in a single game-without even dribbling much.
That’s pure shooting efficiency. And Devin Booker, the hometown hero in Phoenix, took the crown in 2018 and famously dropped 70 in a game back in 2017.
That’s not just a list of past winners-it’s a murderers’ row of marksmen.
Now imagine the energy in the building if all four are locked in and firing. Booker, back in his home arena.
Klay, reuniting with Curry for a nostalgic Splash Brothers moment. Dame, chasing history.
And Steph, the face of the three-point revolution, stepping back into the spotlight.
There’s still plenty of time before next year’s All-Star Weekend, but this early buzz is already giving the event a serious jolt. While the dunk contest continues to search for its next iconic moment, the three-point contest is thriving-and with this kind of star power, it might just steal the show in Phoenix.
So pencil it in now. If Curry, Lillard, Thompson, and Booker all show up, we’re looking at a potential all-time classic.
And if Dame manages to defend his title and pull ahead of Bird and Hodges? That’s history in the making.