2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest: Who Won?

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 44 views

The 2018 NBA All-Star weekend was definitely one for the books, and one of the most anticipated events was the 3-Point Contest. Basketball fans, like us, were all excited to see who would be crowned the king of the long ball. The 2018 contest was held on February 17, 2018, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, and it featured some of the NBA's deadliest shooters. This wasn't just any shooting drill; it was a high-pressure showdown where precision, consistency, and a bit of showmanship were key. The lineup included players known for their long-range accuracy, making it a thrilling event for everyone watching. So, who took home the trophy? Let's dive into the details of the contest, the participants, and the ultimate winner.

The anticipation was high as the players stepped onto the court, each hoping to prove their mettle from beyond the arc. The crowd buzzed with excitement, ready to witness some incredible shooting displays. This contest wasn't just about making shots; it was about handling the pressure and performing under the bright lights of the All-Star stage. For these players, it was a chance to showcase their skills and etch their names in the history of the 3-Point Contest. The 2018 edition promised to be a memorable one, filled with nail-biting moments and spectacular performances. Each participant had their own strategy and approach, but the goal was the same: to outscore their competitors and emerge as the champion. The event was a true test of skill, focus, and composure, and only one player could ultimately claim the title. As the contest unfolded, the tension in the arena was palpable, and every shot was met with cheers and gasps from the audience. It was a thrilling spectacle that kept everyone on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The stage was set, the players were ready, and the fans were eager to witness some amazing displays of shooting prowess. The 2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of skill, dedication, and the love of the game. As the players took their positions and the clock started ticking, everyone knew they were in for a treat. The contest was a showcase of the incredible talent that the NBA had to offer, and it was a reminder of why basketball is such a beloved sport around the world. So, let's get into it and relive all the exciting moments of the 2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest!

The Participants

The 2018 contest featured an impressive lineup of shooters, each with their own unique style and reputation. Let's take a closer look at the participants:

Klay Thompson: Known for his lightning-fast release and incredible accuracy, Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors was always a threat. He had already proven himself as one of the NBA's premier shooters. With his unwavering focus and ability to get hot in an instant, Klay was definitely one of the frontrunners in the competition. His presence alone added an extra layer of excitement to the contest, as fans eagerly anticipated his performance from beyond the arc.
Kyle Lowry: A veteran point guard with a knack for hitting clutch shots, Kyle Lowry of the Toronto Raptors brought experience and determination to the contest. His consistent performance and leadership on the court had earned him a reputation as a reliable shooter. Lowry's participation added a touch of grit and resilience to the competition, as he aimed to showcase his skills on the All-Star stage.
Devin Booker: Representing the Phoenix Suns, Devin Booker was quickly making a name for himself as one of the league's rising stars. He possesses a smooth shooting stroke and a confidence that belied his young age. Booker's presence in the contest signaled his arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, and he was eager to prove his worth among the league's elite shooters. His participation brought a youthful energy to the competition, as fans looked forward to seeing what he could do.
Eric Gordon: A scoring machine for the Houston Rockets, Eric Gordon was known for his ability to create his own shot and knock down tough jumpers. His aggressive style of play and fearless attitude made him a dangerous opponent in any situation. Gordon's participation added an element of unpredictability to the contest, as he was capable of catching fire at any moment. With his knack for hitting contested shots, he was definitely a player to watch.
Paul George: A versatile forward with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Paul George possessed a well-rounded offensive game, including a reliable 3-point shot. His ability to score from anywhere on the court made him a threat to any defense. George's participation added a touch of star power to the contest, as he aimed to showcase his skills on the All-Star stage. With his smooth shooting stroke and knack for hitting big shots, he was a formidable competitor.
Damian Lillard: The Portland Trail Blazers' star point guard, Damian Lillard, was known for his deep range and clutch performances. His confidence and swagger made him a fan favorite. Lillard's participation brought an element of excitement to the contest, as fans eagerly anticipated his long-range bombs. With his reputation for hitting game-winning shots, he was definitely a player to watch.
Bradley Beal: Representing the Washington Wizards, Bradley Beal was one of the most underrated shooters in the league. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to score in bunches made him a dangerous opponent. Beal's participation added an element of surprise to the contest, as he was eager to prove his worth among the league's elite shooters. With his consistent performance and knack for hitting tough shots, he was a formidable competitor.
Tobias Harris: Playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, Tobias Harris brought a combination of size and shooting ability to the contest. His versatility and skill made him a valuable asset to his team. Harris' participation added an element of versatility to the competition, as he aimed to showcase his skills on the All-Star stage. With his smooth shooting stroke and ability to score from anywhere on the court, he was a player to watch.

The Rounds

The contest format consisted of two rounds, with the top three shooters from the first round advancing to the final round. Each player had 70 seconds to shoot as many of the 25 balls as possible. Here’s how it broke down:

First Round: Each player had to navigate five racks of balls, each containing four regular balls (worth one point) and one money ball (worth two points). One rack was designated as the "money ball rack," where every ball was worth two points. This rack was chosen by the player before they started their round, adding a strategic element to the contest. The goal was to accumulate as many points as possible within the 70-second time limit. The pressure was on, and every shot counted. The players had to find their rhythm and maintain their focus to maximize their score. The crowd cheered and gasped with each shot, adding to the intensity of the competition. It was a true test of skill and composure, as the players battled for a spot in the final round.
Final Round: The three highest scorers from the first round advanced to the final round, where they repeated the same format. The player with the highest score in the final round was crowned the champion. The stakes were even higher in the final round, as the players battled for the ultimate prize. The pressure was immense, and every shot was critical. The players had to dig deep and summon their best performance to emerge victorious. The crowd was on its feet, cheering and chanting as the players fought for the title. It was a thrilling conclusion to a captivating contest, as the champion was finally revealed.

The Winner: Devin Booker

In a stunning display of shooting prowess, Devin Booker emerged as the champion of the 2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest. He defeated Klay Thompson and Tobias Harris in the final round with a score of 28 points, which at the time tied the record for the highest score in the final round. He showcased incredible accuracy and composure, solidifying his status as one of the NBA's premier shooters.

Booker's performance was nothing short of spectacular. He started strong and maintained his focus throughout the entire competition. His smooth shooting stroke and unwavering confidence allowed him to excel under pressure. He navigated the racks with precision and efficiency, knocking down shots with remarkable consistency. His ability to handle the pressure and perform at his best when it mattered most was truly impressive. Booker's victory was a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural talent. He had proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with in the NBA, and his future looked incredibly bright.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Booker's final shot went in, securing his victory. He raised his arms in triumph, basking in the glory of his accomplishment. It was a moment he would never forget, and it marked a significant milestone in his career. Booker's victory was not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for the Phoenix Suns and their fans. He had represented his team with honor and skill, and his success was celebrated by all who supported him.

Conclusion

The 2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest was an unforgettable event, showcasing the incredible talent and skill of the league's best shooters. Devin Booker's victory was a testament to his hard work and dedication, and his performance will be remembered for years to come. The contest was a thrilling spectacle that captivated audiences around the world, and it reinforced the importance of shooting in the game of basketball. The players battled with intensity and determination, and their performances were a testament to their commitment to excellence. The 2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest was a true celebration of the sport, and it left fans eagerly anticipating the next edition. The excitement, the drama, and the sheer skill on display made it an event to remember.

So, there you have it, folks! The 2018 NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest was a blast, and Devin Booker took home the crown. We can't wait to see what the future holds for these amazing shooters and the NBA as a whole. Keep ballin'!