Damian Lillard claimed victory in the NBA All-Star 3-Point Contest for the third time in his career, captivating fans at Intuit Dome in Inglewood on Saturday despite sitting out the 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury. The Portland Trail Blazers star, who previously won the event in 2023 and 2024, showcased his sharpshooting prowess under the bright lights of the newly opened arena.
The evening's festivities kicked off with a special introduction from three NBA legends: Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Carmelo Anthony. Addressing the venue's sparse crowd, they outlined the night's schedule, building anticipation for the main event. Queen Latifah then took the microphone to formally announce the eight competitors, heightening the excitement inside Intuit Dome.
The competitors were introduced in order, starting with Charlotte Hornets guard Kon Knueppel, followed by Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray, Miami Heat forward Norman Powell, Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr., Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, and finally Lillard. Powell, a former Los Angeles Clippers player, received the loudest cheers from the crowd, while Booker faced a smattering of boos.
Each shooter was allotted 70 seconds to fire as many shots as possible from five racks positioned behind the 3-point arc. Standard basketballs were worth one point each, while money balls scattered throughout the racks carried a value of two points. Adding to the challenge and potential reward, two “From the Logo” money balls—worth three points apiece—were available from a few extra feet beyond the 3-point line.
Lillard's triumph marked another highlight in his decorated shooting career, proving his skill remains unmatched even from the sidelines of the ongoing NBA season. The event at Intuit Dome underscored the competitive spirit of the All-Star Weekend, drawing top talent and celebrity flair to Inglewood.
