Lynx star Kayla McBride becomes latest to speak out on WNBA 3-point contest drama: ‘Half a– invite’
Lynx Star Kayla McBride Becomes Latest WNBA Player to Address 3-Point Contest Controversy
Explorehotelworld.com – The WNBA continues to face scrutiny over its communication practices, and Lynx star Kayla McBride becomes the latest prominent player to voice her frustration publicly. Following New York Liberty's Sabrina Ionescu, McBride took to social media to clarify her absence from the league's upcoming 3-point shooting contest, describing her notification as nothing short of a "half-a-- invite."
The Minnesota Lynx forward shared her experience on Instagram Story on Wednesday, explaining that she received her invitation through her agent via text message just 48 hours before the event. "Also, for those that are SO concerned," McBride began her statement. "I received a half a-- invite to the 3 pt contest, thru my agent, in a text randomly 48 hours ago..not officially."
"Sooo posting things like i'm afraid of shooting smoke is weird and if you didn't hear it from me prob shouldn't believe it," McBride wrote alongside a shrug emoji, addressing the speculation surrounding her absence.
McBride Calls for Focus on Qualified Shooters
Rather than dwelling on the perceived slight, McBride redirected attention toward the talented players who did receive proper invitations. She highlighted several competitors including Portland Fire's Bridget Carleton, Dallas Wings' Azzi Fudd, Seattle Storm's Natisha Hiedeman, Atlanta Dream's Rhyne Howard, Toronto Tempo's Marina Mabrey, and Golden State Valkyries' Janelle Salaün.
"We should focus on the great shooters in it already!!! because there's some killas in there. good luck to all those participating and when y'all start doing shooting contests coming off pin downs hit me," McBride added with enthusiasm for her fellow athletes.
The 34-year-old McBride brings considerable experience to the conversation. She has participated in three previous 3-point contests throughout her career, though she has yet to claim victory in the event. Her most recent appearance came in 2024, while Ionescu currently holds the title as reigning champion after winning two of the three contests.
McBride's frustration stems not only from the late notification but also from the misconception that she declined participation. The Lynx star is enjoying a career-defining season, averaging 18.2 points per game across 28 games played. This performance matches her career-best output from 2018 and underscores her value to the team.
The 3-point contest remains scheduled for Friday at 8 p.m. ET, and will proceed without McBride, Ionescu, and Caitlin Clark. As the WNBA navigates these growing pains, McBride's candid response exemplifies players demanding better treatment and clearer communication from the league.
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