Damian Lillard, the Trail Blazers' star, claimed his third State Farm 3-Point Contest victory in four years at the 2026 NBA All-Star Saturday event. Despite missing NBA games due to a torn Achilles tendon, Lillard's precision and skill shone through. He scored an impressive 56 points across two rounds, showcasing his exceptional shooting accuracy. Lillard's triumph in the final round, where he made 21 of 27 shots, including a challenging 'From the Logo' shot, solidified his status as a three-time champion. This achievement places him alongside legends like Larry Bird and Craig Hodges, who have also triumphed in the contest three times each.
The competition was fierce, with notable players like Devin Booker and Kon Knueppel giving Lillard a run for his money. Booker, known for his high-scoring abilities, finished second with 27 points, while Knueppel secured third place with 17 points. Lillard's victory was not just a testament to his talent but also to his ability to perform under pressure, especially in the final round where he hit nine of his final ten shots.
The 2026 State Farm 3-Point Contest, held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, featured a star-studded lineup of players, including five NBA All-Stars and two former champions. The event, broadcast live on NBC and Peacock, showcased the excitement and skill of the NBA's best shooters. With four debutants in the contest, the competition was intense, and the top three scorers from the first round advanced to the championship, where Lillard's victory was celebrated with enthusiasm and admiration from fans and fellow players alike.
