NBA 3-point contest 2023: Top 5 biggest snubs this year as reports emerge of confirmed participants

It’s All-Star weekend again in the NBA, and fans across the globe get to witness the thrilling 3-point contest. The annual event showcases the league's best long-range shooters on one court, battling out to see who the long-range king is.

The participants for the 2023 edition have just been announced: Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, Sacramento Kings wing Kevin Huerter, Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro, Indiana Pacers guards Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield, Portland Trail Blazers guards Damian Lillard and Anfernee Simons, as well as Utah Jazz’ forward Lauri Markkanen.

While the competition is expected to be fierce, there are some notable names missing. Here are the top five omissions from this year's contest.

#1, Klay Thompson

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson OKC Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets

Klay Thompson is widely regarded as one of the best long-range shooters in NBA history. He is a five-time All-Star and won the 3-point contest in 2016 with a 27/34 record. He became the second Golden State Warriors player to win the contest after Steve Curry won it a year earlier. Despite his fantastic 3-point total of 190 this season, the Washington State University product has been left out of the contest.

#2, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Caldwell-Pope has been a consistent shooter throughout his career, and his 3-point percentage has improved every year. The former Washington Wizard shooting guard has been a valuable asset to the Denver Nuggets this season, especially with his long range. With an impressive 3-point percentage of 44.9, it is surprising that he did not make the cut for the contest this year.

#3, Luke Kennard

LA Lakers v LA Clippers

Luke Kennard has been an effective long-range shooter since his college days at Duke, and he has continued to improve his 3-point shot in the NBA. With a 3-point shooting percentage of 44.7 this season, the small forward has shown his consistent ability to shoot from long range. The Grizzlies player would have been a worthy addition to this year's 3-point contest.

#4, Donovan Mitchell

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell has established himself as one of the league's premier scorers, and his 3-point shot has been a significant part of his game. He has made over 200 3-pointers in each of the past two seasons and would have been a strong contender in the contest. Donovan has a 3-point percentage of 38.8 this season but won't be part of the contest.

#5, Anthony Edwards

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards has caught the attention of many fans and analysts since his breakout season, and his 3-point shooting was one of the reasons why. The Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard has a 3-point percentage of 36.6 this season. However, the youngster has also been left out of the contest. Still, he is a rising star and will likely be a participant in the contest in the future.