In an exciting announcement for basketball fans, Portland Trail Blazers standout Damian Lillard has been confirmed as a participant in the 2026 State Farm 3-Point Contest, slated for Saturday, February 14, as part of NBA All-Star Weekend festivities in Los Angeles. This annual showcase of premier long-range shooters will air live on NBC and Peacock starting at 2 p.m. PT, with the 3-Point Contest serving as a highlight amid a weekend celebrating the league’s brightest talents.
Lillard’s Comeback: Shooting for More History
Despite currently working through recovery from an Achilles tendon injury suffered during last postseason, Lillard is set to return to one of the NBA’s fan-favorite skills competitions. This marks his sixth career entry in the 3-Point Contest, following previous appearances in 2014, 2019, and every All-Star Saturday from 2023 to 2025. Notably, Lillard captured the event title in both 2023 (Salt Lake City) and 2024 (Indianapolis), cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most lethal perimeter threats.
A Legacy of Long-Distance Dominance
Throughout thirteen NBA campaigns, Lillard has established himself as one of history’s most prolific three-point shooters. He currently stands fifth all-time with 2,804 triples made across his career. Within the Trail Blazers organization, he holds the franchise record with 2,387 threes made during his first eleven seasons—a testament to both his skill and consistency from beyond the arc.
The 2026 All-Star 3-Point Field: A Star-Studded Showdown
Lillard will not be the only elite marksman on display in Los Angeles. This year’s competition brings together some of the league’s best shooters:
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns): Known for his quick release and high-scoring nights.
- Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets): A rising talent making his All-Star weekend debut.
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers): A versatile guard with a knack for scoring from deep.
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers): Renowned for clutch perimeter shots.
- Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets): One of the NBA’s premier sharpshooters in big moments.
- Bobby Portis Jr. (Milwaukee Bucks): Adds size and outside range to the mix.
- Norman Powell (Miami Heat): Recognized for his efficiency from the corner.
This lineup promises a closely contested battle, providing fans with non-stop excitement and some of the game’s most memorable shot-making.
The Impact of Lillard’s All-Star Involvement
Lillard’s return is significant not only for Portland Trail Blazers faithful but for the broader basketball community. To take part in a high-profile event while still in the midst of rehabilitation highlights both his passion for the game and his competitive spirit. It also shines a light on his enduring ability to captivate audiences with his shooting, even as the game evolves with new stars and styles.
What to Watch: All Eyes on “Dame Time”
With two previous 3-Point Contest victories and a history of clutch performances, Lillard enters All-Star Saturday as a favorite to make another deep run. Fans will watch eagerly to see if he can capture a third crown, further adding to an already extraordinary resume. Lillard’s trademark confidence, deep shooting range, and the challenge of facing All-NBA level competition create a perfect storm for a memorable event.
The Growing Prestige of the 3-Point Contest
Once considered a niche specialty, the 3-Point Contest has evolved into a centerpiece of All-Star Weekend. With the outside shot more important in today’s game than ever before, the contest regularly features some of the league’s most prominent names—each seeking to stake their claim as basketball’s premier long-range marksman.
Wrapping Up: Anticipation Builds for a Record-Setting Showcase
Damian Lillard’s participation in the 2026 All-Star 3-Point Contest headlines what promises to be one of the year’s most entertaining NBA events. As he seeks to add another chapter to his legendary shooting career, basketball fans around the world will be watching to see who emerges as the sharpest shooter on the sport’s brightest stage.
