Caleb Williams Struggles in Celebrity 3-Point Contest

The 2026 NBA All-Star Celebrity 3-Point Contest took place Friday at the Intuit Dome as part of the league’s All-Star Weekend. The event featured six competitors, including NBA analyst Richard Jefferson, comedian Druski, streamer PlaqueBoyMax, BMX athlete Nigel Sylvester, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jared McCain, and Bears quarterback Caleb Williams.

Williams, a former USC standout and 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, has built a reputation for ice-cold finishes on the football field. On the basketball court, however, his shooting touch proved elusive. He scored just four points, placing last in the contest and finishing behind Druski, who had five points. McCain led the first round with 11 points, followed by PlaqueBoyMax with nine, and Jefferson and Sylvester with seven apiece. In the final round, McCain extended his dominance with 12 points, claiming the win, while PlaqueBoyMax finished second with 10.

Despite his struggles, Williams made a high-profile entrance, arriving in a white 2025/2026 Range Rover and sporting Nike Kobe 8 Protro “USC” Player Editions, paying homage to his collegiate legacy. He even met with USC head coach Eric Musselman prior to competing, though the pre-game preparation had little effect on his accuracy from beyond the arc.

Williams, 24, has already made a major impact in Chicago. Selected first overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, he broke franchise rookie records for completions, passing yards, and touchdowns, starting every game despite enduring a franchise-high 68 sacks. In 2025, he led the Bears to an 11-6 record and their first playoff win since 2010, throwing for 3,942 yards and 27 touchdowns while orchestrating multiple fourth-quarter comebacks.

1. Celebrity Contest Highlights

The 3-Point Contest showcased a mix of athletic and entertainment talent, combining NBA players, analysts, and celebrities. While Williams struggled, other participants demonstrated unexpected skill. McCain’s consistent performance highlighted the advantage of professional basketball experience, while PlaqueBoyMax and Druski provided entertaining competition for the crowd. The contest also emphasized the crossover appeal of All-Star Weekend, drawing attention from fans of multiple sports. Celebrity participants brought personal flair and humor to the event, enhancing the fan experience and adding to the weekend’s festivities. For Williams, the event was an opportunity to showcase his personality off the football field. Though his basketball performance fell short, the exposure allowed him to engage with a different fan base and participate in the broader All-Star celebration. The combination of seasoned athletes and entertainers made the contest unpredictable, creating a fun and competitive environment that highlighted both skill and showmanship.

2. Williams’ Football Legacy Overshadows Court Struggles

On the gridiron, Williams remains one of the NFL’s most promising young quarterbacks. His calm demeanor and clutch performance have earned him the nickname “The Iceman,” and his early career success has set franchise benchmarks for Chicago. Despite the 3-point miss, his football accomplishments remain the focal point of his athletic reputation. His ability to lead fourth-quarter comebacks and produce record-breaking seasons in his first two NFL campaigns underscores his elite talent and poise under pressure. The contrast between his football success and basketball challenges serves as a reminder that athletic prowess in one sport does not automatically translate to another. Fans and media alike continue to celebrate his football skills, even as he experiments with celebrity competitions. Williams’ participation also reflects the growing trend of NFL stars engaging in multi-sport and entertainment events, offering a glimpse into their personalities and marketability beyond football.

3. All-Star Weekend Continues

The All-Star festivities continue Saturday with NBA players competing in the skills challenge, including the official 3-point shootout, dunk contest, and timed shooting events. Sunday will feature the All-Star Game in Los Angeles, capping off the weekend’s competitions. The event emphasizes both basketball excellence and entertainment value, blending professional skill with fan engagement. Celebrity competitions like the 3-Point Contest add an element of unpredictability and fun, allowing stars from other sports and entertainment to participate. While Williams’ performance was underwhelming, the weekend still provides him and other athletes a platform to connect with fans and enjoy a lighter side of competition. All-Star Weekend continues to grow as a showcase for crossover talent and athletic spectacle. Fans will eagerly watch how NBA stars and celebrity participants perform in the remaining events, maintaining excitement through the conclusion of the weekend.