Azzi Fudd makes history as the first rookie to win 3-Point Contest, plus other WNBA All-Star Friday happenings

The 2026 WNBA All-Star Weekend, hosted in Chicago, kicked off with remarkable moments that highlighted both emerging talents and the league’s celebrated history. Among the standout events on Friday was the 3-Point Contest, where Dallas Wings rookie Azzi Fudd made a significant mark by becoming the first newcomer to claim the title.

Fudd’s performance was notable for its consistency and intensity. She posted 24 points in the opening round, setting the tone for the final where she elevated her game to score 30 points. This decisive round outpaced Bridget Carleton of the Portland Fire, who managed 19 points in the finale after a strong 27-point effort in the previous round. Other participants, including Rhyne Howard (Atlanta Dream), Marina Mabrey (Toronto Tempo), Natisha Heideman (Seattle Storm), and Janelle Salaün (Golden State Valkyries), were all eliminated in the first round despite competitive scores.

The rookie’s victory is a milestone in the contest’s history, signifying the rising impact of new talents within the league. Fudd attributed her achievement to the support of her parents, underscoring the personal dedication behind her success.

In parallel to the 3-Point Contest, the WNBA introduced the Shooting Stars competition, an innovative format uniting players from current teams, alumni, and promising youth athletes. Four city-representative teams competed in this fast-paced event, with Team Washington—featuring WNBA star Shakira Austin, veteran Elena Delle Donne, and high school standout Jezelle “GG” Banks—emerging victorious. Their dominant 35-point first round paved the way for a final win over Team Seattle, composed of Flau’jae Johnson, Lauren Jackson, and Tatianna Griffin, with a final score of 31-24.

This new event showcased a blend of talent across generations and is expected to become a permanent fixture in future All-Star weekends, given its engaging format and broad representation.

Beyond the competitions, the atmosphere of the weekend was enriched by a noteworthy visit from former President Barack Obama at the WNBA All-Stars’ practice session at the Obama Presidential Center. His presence brought an unexpected and joyful element, interacting with players and expressing encouragement. Obama’s playful attempt to guard Jonquel Jones and his light-hearted connection with Kiki Iriafen, who wears the number 44 jersey like the former president’s ordinal number, added a memorable narrative to the festivities.

The weekend served as a powerful reminder of the WNBA’s growth and cultural relevance, as it celebrated the league’s 30th anniversary with reflections on its past and aspirations for the future. The All-Star events not only spotlighted individual excellence but also reinforced the community and camaraderie central to the league’s identity.

As anticipation builds for the headline All-Star Game at the United Center on Saturday night, the momentum from Friday’s competitions and special moments sets a high bar. The ongoing dialogue about players’ experiences, such as Caitlin Clark’s candid reflections on the pressures of fame, adds depth to the weekend’s narrative.

With the combination of historic achievements, innovative contests, and high-profile support, the 2026 WNBA All-Star Weekend in Chicago continues to affirm the league’s dynamic presence in women’s sports and its broader cultural impact.