A Tough but Proud Finish for Buddy Hield
Buddy Hield’s journey in the 2025 Starry 3-Point Contest at NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco was a mix of high points and a bitter ending. Despite setting a career-best performance in the first round with 31 points, Hield fell just one point short of Miami Heat’s Tyler Herro in the final round, placing second with 23 points. The disappointment was palpable, but Hield’s resilience and competitive spirit shone through. “Tough one,” he admitted, acknowledging the bad start that saw him miss all five shots in his opening rack and his first make coming only on his eighth attempt. However, his determination was visible as he managed to string together a series of successful shots, including the crucial money ball on his final rack.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Competition
The 3-point contest is often seen as a fun, less intense part of All-Star Weekend, but for Hield, the stakes were high. His performance in the first round was a testament to his shooting prowess, and advancing to the final round with Herro and Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland was a significant achievement. Yet, the home crowd at Chase Center added an extra layer of pressure and motivation. Hield, who has called Chase Center home for 55 games this season, received a loud ovation during introductions, a clear sign of the love and support from the local fans. However, when Damian Lillard, the Oakland native and two-time 3-point contest champion, was eliminated in the first round, the crowd’s enthusiasm naturally shifted to Hield. The emotional rollercoaster of the evening was not lost on him, but he managed to stay positive, even as his competitive spirit took a hit.
Home Court Advantage and Fan Support
Competing in the Bay Area, particularly in an arena he calls home, was a significant boost for Hield. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity during the All-Star Media Day on Saturday morning, saying, “It means a lot. Being in San Francisco, playing for the Warriors, being with your home fanbase, to experience that, I’m just happy to be here.” The Chase Center crowd was indeed electrifying, providing a wave of energy that Hield felt throughout the competition. The fans’ support was a constant reminder of why he loves playing for the Warriors and the city. Even though the result wasn’t what he hoped for, he cherished the moment and the special atmosphere it created. “It was good, great vibes,” he said. “All-Star Weekend is great, being able to compete. Fans love it, and it hasn’t been here in 25 years, so I’m glad to be part of it.”
The Clash of the Sharpshooters
Hield’s performance in the final round was a battle of nerves and precision. The pressure of the home crowd and the high expectations from his supporters might have contributed to his initial struggles. Missing all five shots in his opening rack was a setback, but he didn’t let it deter him. Hield’s shooting touch returned, and he made a series of impressive shots, including the money ball on his final rack. However, Tyler Herro’s consistent shooting and a slightly better start made the difference. Herro’s eventual win with 24 points in the final round was a testament to the razor-thin margins in such a high-stakes contest. Hield’s disappointment was evident, but he maintained a professional and gracious demeanor, recognizing Herro’s skill and the competitive nature of the event.
The Impact of Damian Lillard’s Elimination
One of the most notable moments of the evening was the elimination of Damian Lillard in the first round. Lillard, a proud Oakland native and two-time 3-point contest champion, received a deafening ovation during introductions, a clear indication of his popularity and the fans’ deep connection to his roots. However, when he was eliminated, the crowd’s focus quickly shifted to Hield, who was the next best local contender. This transition in fan support underlined the strong bond between the city and its current and former NBA stars. Hield felt the weight of this support, but it also fueled his determination to perform well and represent the Bay Area proudly.
Looking Forward to the Second Half of the Season
Although Hield’s All-Star Weekend ended on a note of disappointment, he remains focused on the bigger picture. He plans to return to the Bahamas for a mental reset before diving back into the season. The Warriors, with a new-look roster, are gearing up for a strong second-half push to secure a playoff spot. Hield’s experience and leadership will be crucial in this endeavor. The 3-point contest may have been a missed opportunity, but it’s a reminder of the high standards he sets for himself and the respect he commands from fans and peers alike. The Warriors and the Bay Area community continue to rally behind him, and Hield is ready to carry that support into the remainder of the season.
Embracing the All-Star Spirit
In the end, while the result of the 3-point contest might not have been what Hield had hoped for, the experience was undeniably valuable. All-Star Weekend is a time for the NBA’s best to shine and for fans to enjoy the spectacle. Hield’s participation in the 3-Point Contest and his performance, despite the initial setbacks, showcased his talent and the resilience that has made him a fan favorite. The opportunity to compete in front of a passionate home crowd and to be part of a historic weekend in San Francisco is something he will carry with him, using it to fuel his drive and passion for the game. The spirit of All-Star Weekend, combined with the love from his fans, sets a positive tone for the rest of the season.
