Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker has experienced a puzzling decline in his three-point shooting efficiency over recent seasons, despite being renowned as one of the NBA’s most accurate jump shooters. Throughout the 2025-26 regular season, Booker’s long-range accuracy has dropped further, but he still earned a spot in the 3-point shooting contest during All-Star Weekend. After finishing as a finalist but ultimately falling short to Damian Lillard, Booker hinted this could be his final appearance in the event.
Performance Challenges Mark Recent Seasons for Booker and the Suns
Booker and the Suns have faced considerable ups and downs over the last two NBA seasons. The previous year saw ambitious plans with a star trio including Bradley Beal and Kevin Durant, aimed at making a championship run. However, the team failed to make the playoffs, disappointing many fans and analysts. This current season, despite losing both Beal and Durant, Phoenix has reshaped its identity around Booker as a primary scorer supported by complementary teammates.
Even though Booker remains a premier playmaker for Phoenix, his shooting accuracy, especially beyond the arc, has been less consistent. Last season, his three-point percentage dropped to a concerning 33.2%, and this season it decreased further to just 31.1%, a significant slump for a five-time All-Star famed for his shooting prowess.
Booker’s Show in the 3-Point Contest and His Reflective Comments
Despite the shooting struggles during the regular season, Booker made a strong showing in the initial round of the All-Star 3-point contest, leading the field into the second round. It was in the final moments that he faltered, missing three consecutive shots that would have tied the score against Damian Lillard, who is on track to become a three-time contest champion.
After the competition, Booker shared his feelings about the close loss and his potential future participation. He stated,
This one hurt a little bit. I wanted this one bad.
?Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns Shooting Guard
Booker also expressed his anticipation about possibly ending his contest appearances on home ground in Phoenix, saying,
I wish I was defending [the 3-Point title] in Phoenix, but [next year] will probably be the last time I do it…
?Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns Shooting Guard
He added,
I wish I was defending it in Phoenix, but it’ll probably be the last time I do it next year if I get the invite.
?Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns Shooting Guard
What Booker’s Statement Might Mean for His Career and the Suns
Booker’s comments suggest he may step away from future 3-point shooting contests soon, emphasizing the likelihood that the next event may mark his final appearance. Given the importance of the All-Star Game and the contest being held in Phoenix—also known as the Valley—there is a strong possibility that Booker will be invited to compete once again, providing a chance to secure the title that narrowly eluded him.
This potential farewell to the event highlights a turning point in Booker’s career amid ongoing questions about his shooting form. Should he participate again, it could serve as a significant moment for both Booker and his fans, offering a chance to reaffirm his reputation as one of the game’s elite shooters. Meanwhile, the Suns continue to build around his talents in pursuit of renewed team success.
"I wish I was defending [the 3-Point title] in Phoenix, but [next year] will probably be the last time I do it…"
After the All-Star Game, Devin Booker hinted that he'll save his last 3-Point Contest performance for the fans in the Valley. pic.twitter.com/QtnuwRCZMh
— PHNX Suns (@PHNX_Suns) February 16, 2026
