The NBA All-Star Weekend would not feel complete without Stephen Curry lighting it up in the 3-Point Contest, but to the disappointment of many fans, the greatest shooter of all time will not be participating in the 2025 event.
Curry, a four-time 3-Point Contest champion, has dominated the competition in past years, setting records and delivering unforgettable moments. However, this year, the Warriors’ superstar has chosen to sit out the event, raising questions about why he is skipping the competition and what it means for his season.
Let’s take a closer look at why Curry opted out, what his absence means for the contest, and whether we might see him return in future years.
Why Is Stephen Curry Skipping the 2025 3-Point Contest?
Curry’s decision to pass on competing this year comes down to a few key factors, including injury management, workload, and a focus on the bigger picture.
1. Managing His Workload & Health
At 36 years old, Curry remains one of the best players in the NBA, but the Warriors are carefully managing his minutes to ensure he stays fresh for the postseason.
- Curry has been dealing with left quad soreness in recent weeks, which likely played a role in his decision.
- The Warriors are in the middle of a tight Western Conference playoff race, making rest and recovery a priority.
- Competing in the 3-Point Contest requires extra travel, warm-ups, and shooting reps, which could put additional stress on his body.
2. Bigger Focus: Winning Another Championship
While Curry loves the All-Star stage, his main goal remains winning another NBA title with the Warriors.
- The Warriors need him at full strength as they push for a top seed in the West.
- Curry has already won the contest four times, so there is little left for him to prove.
- Skipping the event allows him to focus on the second half of the season and prepare for a deep playoff run.
3. Letting the Next Generation Shine
Curry’s absence also creates opportunities for younger sharpshooters to take center stage. The 3-Point Contest has evolved, with players like Damian Lillard, Tyrese Haliburton, Desmond Bane, and Anthony Edwards emerging as new threats from deep.
- Curry has cemented his legacy as the greatest shooter ever, so he does not need another trophy.
- His decision to skip allows rising stars to showcase their talent on a big stage.
- This keeps the event fresh and competitive, as fans get to see new faces compete for the title.
Will Curry Ever Compete in the 3-Point Contest Again?
Even though Curry is sitting out in 2025, there is still a chance he could return in the future.
- A Farewell Appearance? Many legends participate in the contest one last time before retiring, so Curry could make a comeback if he wants a final 3-Point Contest moment before ending his career.
- If the Event Is in Golden State – If the All-Star Game is ever hosted in the Bay Area, there is a high chance Curry would compete in front of his home fans.
- Competing Against Klay Thompson? If Klay Thompson announces his final 3-Point Contest, Curry might join him for one last splash showdown.
For now, though, Curry is prioritizing health and team success over adding another contest win to his résumé.
How Curry’s Absence Affects the 2025 3-Point Contest
With Curry out of the event, the field becomes wide open for a new champion to emerge. Some of the biggest names expected to compete include:
- Damian Lillard – The defending champion and one of the best deep-range shooters in the NBA.
- Tyrese Haliburton – A rising star who made the finals last year and has one of the most efficient shooting strokes in the league.
- Desmond Bane – A pure shooter who has become a key player for the Memphis Grizzlies.
- Devin Booker – A past participant looking to finally claim a 3-Point Contest victory.
- Buddy Hield – One of the best catch-and-shoot players in the NBA, always a strong contender.
Without Curry, the competition is much more unpredictable, making for an exciting battle for the title.
Final Thoughts: No Curry, But Still a Must-Watch Event
While Curry’s absence from the 2025 3-Point Contest is disappointing for fans, it makes sense given his focus on the Warriors’ season and long-term health.
With four contest wins and a reputation as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Curry has nothing left to prove. His decision to sit out opens the door for new stars to shine, and while he won’t be competing this year, his impact on the event remains as strong as ever.
The big question now is: Will Curry ever return for one last 3-Point Contest? Time will tell, but one thing is certain—no one will ever forget the dominance he brought to the event.
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