Sharpshooters on Display: Who Will Reign in the 2024 3-Point Contest?

This NBA All-Star Weekend 2024 in Indianapolis is shaping up to be an electrifying showcase of basketball brilliance, and the spotlight shines brightly on the Starry 3-Point Contest. As the NBA’s sharpshooters prepare to dazzle fans at Lucas Oil Stadium, we at BrownBagBets are here to bring our signature approach to one of the weekend’s most anticipated events. True to our ethos, we’re delivering transparency in our picks, dissecting the odds, and sharing our insights on who we believe stands the best chance in this star-studded lineup. Reigning champion Damian Lillard returns, eyeing another title, but faces stiff competition from the likes of hometown hero Tyrese Haliburton, sharpshooter Trae Young, and other elite marksmen. With the contest set to light up Saturday night, we dive deep into the analytics, trends, and performances that could sway the outcome. Join us as we break down each competitor’s chances, offering you not just picks but the comprehensive reasoning behind them. Because at BrownBagBets, we don’t just bet on the event; we bet on making you a more informed and skilled bettor.

Pick: Damian Lillard to Win @ +450 / Wager: 1%

Pick: Jalen Brunson to Win @ + 600 / Wager: 1%

Pick: Malik Beasley to Win @ +750 / Wager: 1%

Damian Lillard: The Defending Champion’s Quest for Repeat

Damian Lillard enters the 3-Point Contest as the man to beat. A testament to his sharpshooting prowess, Lillard, currently fifth on the NBA’s all-time list for 3-pointers made, boasts a career 37% shooting average from beyond the arc. Despite a slight dip this season to 34.1%, his ability to hit from deep, especially beyond 30 feet (12-of-35), cannot be underestimated. Last season’s victory showcased his clutch shooting, making him a strong contender to defend his title, even as he adapts to playing for a new team.

Jalen Brunson: The Underdog with a Point to Prove

Jalen Brunson’s journey from a 35% three-point shooter to a formidable 41% marksman in Year 6 of his career is nothing short of impressive. His nearly three triples per game this season, up from less than one in his first two seasons, illustrate his improved shooting capabilities. Brunson’s competitive nature and motivation, fueled by being last year’s biggest All-Star snub, positions him as a serious contender in this contest. His determination and significant improvement in three-point shooting make him an intriguing pick to potentially outshoot the competition.

Malik Beasley: The Dark Horse Making His Mark

Malik Beasley, often overlooked amidst the star-studded lineup, brings an exceptional 44.9% shooting accuracy from the three-point line, ranking him fifth in the league. His specialized role with the Bucks has seen him achieving remarkable feats, including multiple games with at least four 3-point makes this month alone and breaking Ray Allen’s franchise record for five or more 3-pointers in 13 games. Beasley’s ambition is clear, aiming to put the league on notice and follow in the footsteps of Ray Allen, the only Bucks player to have won the competition. With a history of “journeymen” clinching the title, Beasley emerges as a compelling choice, embodying the spirit of an underdog poised for a significant breakthrough.