The WNBA All-Star weekend festivities were amazing, exciting and fun to watch. The one I always look forward to is the All-Star skills challenge both in the NBA and WNBA. This year’s WNBA All-Star Skills Challenge did not disappoint and it was a close call for the winner. The winner of 2019 WNBA All-Star skills challenge is guard Diamond DeShields of the Chicago Sky.

Brittney Griner

WNBA All-Star Skills Challenge
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The 6 foot 9 Center plays for the Phoenix Mercury Griner participated in the Skills Challenge in the WNBA All-Star weekend festivities. At first, I was shocked to see her name amongst the participants. Not because of the lack of talent but due to the fact she is 6 foot 9 and tall players usually don’t have the speed. However, watching players participate in events like the skills challenge is always exciting. Atlanta’s Elizabeth Williams defeated Griner in the opening round matchup.

Skills Challenge

The competition was fierce and DeShields ended defeating Williams in the semifinals matchup. In my opinion, this event is the most anticipating all-star event of the weekend. In addition, to see all types of players it showcases the skills of each player. It consists of dribbling, passing, lay-ups and shooting. In fact, it shows the fans who really have the skills in all four basic fundamentals.

The most exciting part is the fans cheering for each individual player and seeing who can go through the cones as fast as possible who can pass the best under pressure and make an easy lay-up. The last station is the 3-point shot. Firstly, it is difficult to go full speed and make a 3-point shot on the first try. Jones had the advantage during the finals. However, she missed her first attempt and DeShields with a sweet shot made hers. The crowd went wild and DeShields was announced the winner of the 2019 WNBA All-Star Skills Challenge.

Let’s take a look at her dramatic winning bucket. Her opponent the one and only forward Jonquel Jones of the Connecticut Sun.

Follow me on Twitter @coachguevara205 and @WNBAbellyup

About Author

Penny G

Hello, my name is Penny Guevara, I am the WNBA Dept Head/Head of Talent Acquisition /social media coordinator. I joined Belly Up Sports a year ago and haven't looked back since. A family-oriented company that only makes you better. I have an Associate's degree in Sports Management and a certificate in Media Communications. I cover NCAA games for USF and I also cover the Orlando Magic. My passion for sports comes from a young age. My favorite quote is, " Everything happens for a reason"

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