NBA 2025 3-Point Contest: Prize Money, Participants, and Lillard’s Quest for a Three-Peat
The NBA’s 3-Point Contest has been a staple of All-Star Weekend for decades, evolving over the years with new formats and deeper shot incentives. The 2025 edition features a strong lineup of sharpshooters, including Jalen Brunson, Cade Cunningham, Darius Garland, Tyler Herro, Buddy Hield, Cam Johnson, Damian Lillard, and Norman Powell.
Lillard, the reigning champion, is eyeing a historic third consecutive victory, while Hield looks to reclaim the crown he won in 2020. With a mix of seasoned winners and rising stars, this year’s competition promises to be a thrilling showdown.
How Much Prize Money is at Stake?
While the contest is about bragging rights and entertainment, there’s also a financial incentive. According to the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the prize pool is structured as follows:
- Winner: $60,000
- Runner-up: $40,000
- Third Place: $25,000
- 4th-7th Place Finishers: $15,000 each
- Last Place: $10,000
Compared to the massive contracts NBA players earn, the prize money may not be a major motivator. However, it adds an extra layer of competition, particularly for younger players and those looking to showcase their shooting skills on a big stage.
How Does the 3-Point Contest Compare to Other Events?
The 3-Point Contest boasts a larger prize pool than the Skills Challenge but falls short of the Slam Dunk Contest, which offers the highest payout:
| Event | Prize Money |
|---|---|
| Slam Dunk Contest | $105,000 |
| 3-Point Contest | $60,000 |
| Skills Challenge | $55,000 |
Past 3-Point Contest Champions
Damian Lillard won back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024, joining an elite group of repeat winners. Other recent champions include Karl-Anthony Towns (2022), Stephen Curry (2021), and Buddy Hield (2020). The contest has a rich history, with legends like Larry Bird, Craig Hodges, and Ray Allen among its past winners.
As the 2025 All-Star Weekend approaches, all eyes will be on whether Lillard can cement his dominance or if a new champion will emerge to claim the crown.
