The NBA 3-Point Contest is one of All-Star Saturday’s marquee attractions. Before the dunkers take flight, the league’s best shooters battle the clock and each other for bragging rights and a cash bonus.
While the trophy and prestige carry weight, there’s also guaranteed prize money on the line. Here’s how much the champion earns and what the rest of the field takes home.
How Much Does the 3-Point Contest Winner Earn?
Unlike player salaries or league awards, there’s no formal announcement each year detailing the cash payout for the winner or other participants. According to the NBA’s CBA provisions used in 2025:
- 1st place (3-Point Contest champion): ~$60,000
- 2nd place: $40,000
- 3rd place: $25,000
- 4th–7th place: $15,000 each
- 8th place: $10,000
While the league has not confirmed exact payouts for the 2026 event, this structure offers a reasonable baseline for expected earnings. It’s important to note that these figures are tied to CBA-mandated bonus pools and represent approximate historical data, not an official 2026 announcement.
Compared to max NBA contracts, $60,000 may seem modest. However, the contest bonus remains meaningful, particularly for younger players or role players, and the exposure can yield long-term financial benefits through endorsements and brand growth.
When and Where Is the 2026 3-Point Contest?
The 2026 State Farm 3-Point Contest will take place on Saturday, February 14, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. It tips off at 5 p.m. ET as part of the NBA All-Star Saturday lineup, and the full broadcast will air on NBC with streaming available on Peacock.
Who Is Competing in 2026?
This year’s eight-player field blends former champions, All-Stars, and first-time participants:
- Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns
- Kon Knueppel – Charlotte Hornets
- Damian Lillard – Portland Trail Blazers
- Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers
- Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers
- Jamal Murray – Denver Nuggets
- Bobby Portis Jr. – Milwaukee Bucks
- Norman Powell – Miami Heat
Damian Lillard returns as a two-time champion, while Booker won the event in 2018. Mitchell, notably, is attempting to become the first player ever to win both the Slam Dunk Contest and the 3-Point Contest.
Last year’s champion was Tyler Herro, who captured the title in San Francisco.
How the 3-Point Contest Works
Eight players compete in a two-round timed shooting format.
Each participant has 70 seconds to shoot 27 balls across five racks positioned around the arc. Key scoring details include:
1) Standard game balls are worth 1 point.
2) “Money balls” are worth 2 points.
3) A full rack of money balls can be placed at a location of the player’s choice.
4) Two deep “From the Logo” shots are worth 3 points each.
The top three scorers from the first round advance to the championship round, where scores reset, and the highest final total wins the $60,000 prize.
Why the Contest Still Matters
Though the financial bonus is relatively small compared to NBA salaries, the 3-Point Contest carries significant prestige. Legends like Larry Bird and Craig Hodges share the record with three wins each. Among active players, Stephen Curry and Lillard have multiple titles.
Winning places a player in elite shooting company and in All-Star Weekend history.
