Damian Lillard's Remarkable 3-Point Showdown

During the exhilarating 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend held in Los Angeles, Damian Lillard captured headlines once again, taking home his third consecutive 3-Point Shootout title. With every shot he took, Lillard displayed an unyielding determination and skill that has now placed him in an exclusive club of NBA sharpshooters.

Aspirations for 2027

After securing his latest victory, Lillard set his sights on an even more historic target: he aims to become the first player ever to win the 3-Point Contest four times. In a conversation with Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo following his victory, Lillard expressed his ambition, saying, "I'm gonna do it again next year. Got to." This determination highlights both his competitive nature and his desire to prove himself on the court once again.

Are Injury Concerns Behind Him?

Interestingly, this win comes during a season where Lillard has not played due to an Achilles injury sustained in April 2025. He faced rehab challenges but managed to bounce back in time for the 2026 event. After successfully undergoing surgery in May, Lillard was subsequently released by the Bucks in July but rejoined the Portland Trail Blazers, the team where he initially made his mark in the league. His recent achievements in the 3-Point Contest suggest that he is on the right path to recovery.

Historic Accomplishments

With this latest title, Lillard now shares the honor of three-time 3-Point Contest champion with legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges. Bird dominated the competition in its initial years, winning from 1986 to 1988 while representing the Boston Celtics, whereas Hodges clinched his three titles consecutively from 1990 to 1992 as a member of the Chicago Bulls. Lillard, however, has proven his versatility by winning his first two contests with the Trail Blazers in 2023 and the Bucks in 2024, showcasing his remarkable ability across different teams.

Remarkable Performance in the Finals

Throughout the 2026 contest, Lillard displayed an impressive level of play. In the first round, he scored a staggering 27 points, putting him in a strong position against competitors like Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns and Kon Knueppel from the Charlotte Hornets. Lillard saved his best for last, amassing 29 points in the finals, which included an impressive run of 10 consecutive three-pointers. His stellar performance proved too much for his competitors, allowing him to secure victory once again.

What's Next for Lillard?

Looking ahead, Lillard has expressed his intentions to return to the Trail Blazers at the start of the 2026-27 season. Should everything align, including a healthy recovery from his Achilles injury, he could very well be a contender for the 2027 3-Point Contest. Achieving a fourth title would be unprecedented and would further solidify his standing as one of the best sharpshooters in the history of the NBA.

Conclusion

Damian Lillard’s triumphant return to the NBA spotlight through his 3-Point Shootout success is a testament to his skill, resilience, and unyielding ambition. As he prepares for a hopeful return to full gameplay with the Portland Trail Blazers, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching his journey towards claiming that coveted fourth title in 2027. If his performance during the All-Star Weekend is any indication, Lillard is just getting started in his quest to etch his name deeper into NBA lore.