Damian Lillard, sidelined for the current NBA season due to a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained during the 2025 playoffs, delivered a stunning performance at the NBA All-Star Weekend, winning the Three-Point Contest for a third time. The victory at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, ties Lillard with Larry Bird (1986-1988) and Craig Hodges (1990-1992) for the most Three-Point Contest titles in NBA history.
Lillard’s participation itself was notable, given his ongoing recovery. The Portland Trail Blazers granted him permission to participate in the shooting events, but he remains out for the 2025-26 season as he continues rehabilitation. The Three-Point Contest, a controlled environment without physical contact, allowed Lillard to showcase his skill without the demands of a full game.
The contest featured eight participants, with the top three advancing to the final round. Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns led the first round with 30 points, followed by Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets and Lillard, both with 27 points. Those eliminated in the first round included Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers) with 24 points, Norman Powell (Miami Heat) with 23, Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets) with 18, Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers) with 17, and Bobby Portis Jr. (Milwaukee Bucks) with 15.
In the final round, Knueppel opened with 17 points. Booker then raised the bar with 27 points, putting pressure on Lillard. Responding to the crowd’s energy, Lillard closed with 29 points, securing the championship.
The win underscores Lillard’s reputation as one of the league’s premier shooters. Reuters highlighted the unusual nature of his victory, noting he competed “despite being sidelined this season.” The narrative of a player overcoming injury to achieve success resonated throughout the event.
Lillard’s triumph adds another accolade to his career and solidifies his place among the elite competitors in the history of the Three-Point Contest.
