In a historic night for the WNBA, Allisha Gray of the Atlanta Dream made headlines by becoming the first player to win both the skills challenge and the 3-point contest in the same year. This achievement not only solidifies her skills as a top player in the league but also comes with a lucrative prize. Gray walked away with a total of $115,150 from the WNBA and Aflac, a substantial amount compared to her annual salary of $185,000. It’s safe to say that dinner is on her after this incredible feat.
Gray’s journey to winning the 3-point contest was no easy feat. After scoring 22 points in the finals, she had to anxiously watch as her competitor, Jonquel Jones of the New York Liberty, took her final shot. A make would have given Jones the win by a point, but as fate would have it, the shot bounced off the rim. Gray emerged victorious with a score of 22-21. Reflecting on the tense moment, Gray admitted to being nervous due to Jones’ impressive shooting abilities. However, she expressed relief when the final shot missed, knowing she was up against a formidable opponent.
Having already participated in the skills challenge earlier in the evening, Gray was well-prepared for the 3-point contest. Despite feeling some fatigue from the previous event, Gray remained focused and determined to give her best performance. Her resilience paid off as she clinched the victory and etched her name in WNBA history as the first player to achieve such a remarkable feat. This victory not only showcases Gray’s shooting prowess but also her mental strength under pressure.
While Gray is the first player to win both the skills challenge and the 3-point contest in the same year, she joins a prestigious list of athletes who have achieved similar milestones. The likes of Becky Hammon and Sabrina Ionescu have also claimed victories in both events over the years. Gray’s success adds to her growing legacy in the WNBA and solidifies her position as one of the top players in the league. Her dedication to her craft and competitive spirit have propelled her to new heights in her career.
The WNBA All-Star Weekend was not only a platform for individual achievements but also a stage for showcasing talent and camaraderie. The skills challenge, with its various elements testing players’ abilities, highlighted the diverse skill set of the participants. The 3×3 exhibition game ahead of the Paris Olympics provided fans with a glimpse of the upcoming competition, with the national team emerging victorious. The event was a celebration of women’s basketball and the incredible athletes that make the sport so exhilarating to watch.
Allisha Gray’s historic night at the WNBA All-Star Weekend will be remembered as a turning point in her career. Her remarkable victories in the skills challenge and the 3-point contest not only set her apart from her peers but also cemented her status as a standout player in the league. Gray’s determination, skill, and mental fortitude were on full display, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike. As she prepares to treat her Dream teammates to dinner, Gray can bask in the glory of her achievements and look forward to a bright future in the WNBA.