Caitlin Clark has revealed she turned down the chance to compete in the 3-point contest during WNBA All-Star weekend because she needs a “break.”
Clark, who has emerged as the biggest star in women’s basketball over the past year, was offered a chance to play in the competition on Friday night but declined the invitation before Saturday’s All-Star Game.
The Indiana Fever rookie received criticism after ignoring the 3-point contest, with ESPN analyst David Dennis Jr. fuming that she had “no excuse” for doing so.
However, speaking to reporters ahead of the skills challenge, Clark admitted he needs to prioritise his own health and wellbeing after a hectic year in the sport.
“Honestly, I think it’s best to rest,” he said when asked about not competing. “I’ve been playing basketball for a year straight.
Caitlin Clark has revealed she turned down the chance to compete in the 3-point contest at WNBA All-Star weekend because she needs a ‘break’
“It’s not an easy thing to do, just show up and shoot from a shelf. It’s something I’ve never done before. It’s not something I’ve had a lot of time to practice for.
“I’m enjoying this break. I think I’ll have plenty of opportunities to do this at some point.”
Clark has enjoyed a breakout year after reaching the March Madness championship game with Iowa and then being selected by Indiana with the first overall pick in the WNBA Draft.
The 22-year-old is off to a strong start in the big leagues, setting a number of records and leading the WNBA in assists per game (8.2).
In addition to Clark, New York Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu also turned down an offer to compete in the 3-point contest on Friday night, though without giving a reason.
Instead, the challenge will feature Jonquel Jones of New York, Allisha Gray of Atlanta, Marina Mabrey of Connecticut, Stefanie Dolson of Washington and Kayla McBride of Minnesota.
“The group of shooters we have in the competition is really good. They’re all scoring close to 40 percent,” Clark continued. “So I’m excited for them, I’ll be there to support them and it’ll be fun.
Clark, who will play in Saturday’s All-Star Game, admits he is prioritizing his well-being.
Sabrina Ionescu also turned down the opportunity to participate in the 3-point contest on Friday.
‘But yes, I think the most important thing for me is that I need a break and take some time for myself, to enjoy what I want to do.
“It can be difficult to be in the position I’m in at times, but I think it will be the healthiest thing for me.”
The absences of Clark and Ionescu will be notable in Friday’s contest in Phoenix, as both are among the league’s most prolific 3-point shooters.
While Clark ranks just 37th in the league with 32.7 percent accuracy from 3-point range, he has hit 71 three-point shots this season, which is good for third in the league.
Meanwhile, Ionescu ranks second with 74 three-pointers on the season and 24th in accuracy at 35.6 percent.
