Many argue that most events during NBA All-Star Weekend are underwhelming. But one competition consistently stands out—the Three-Point Shootout. Unlike the All-Star Game, where players often take it easy to avoid injuries (or just to put on a show), the Skills Challenge, where Chris Paul seemingly brainwashed Victor Wembanyama into making it entertaining, or the Slam Dunk Contest, which has devolved from Jordan vs. Dominique to "random Top 10 rookie, random Top 10 sophomore, and Mac McClung," the best shooters in the league actually show up for the Three-Point Contest.
This year was no different. Tyler Herro outgunned Buddy Hield and Darius Garland, securing the Miami Heat’s place in history as the first NBA team to win five Three-Point Shootout titles. Miami’s dominance in the event dates back to Glen Rice’s win in 1995, followed by Jason Kapono, Daequan Cook, and James Jones from 2007 to 2011. Now, 14 years later, Herro adds to that legacy.
Even beyond those who won while wearing a Heat jersey, Miami alumni have thrived in the contest. Voshon Lenard (2004) and Quentin Richardson (2005) claimed titles while playing for the Nuggets and Suns, respectively. Kapono won again in 2008 with the Toronto Raptors, and Kevin Love took the crown in 2012 as a Minnesota Timberwolf.
And of course, Ray F'N Allen also had it in 2001.
In this year’s contest, Herro barely made the finals, finishing third behind Hield and Garland in the elimination round. However, with the rest of the field—including Cade Cunningham, Norman Powell, Cam Johnson, Jalen Brunson, and Damian Lillard—struggling, Herro capitalized on the opportunity. As everyone else struggled, Herro sank the balls, finishing one point ahead of Hield, 24 to 23.
His victory also prevented Lillard in his quest to join Larry Bird as one of two players to win the contest three consecutive times.