Lillard Joins 3-Point Contest for All-Star Saturday Despite No Season Play
Damian Lillard is set to make a surprising return to the court, albeit in a unique situation. He will don his Portland Trail Blazers uniform at the upcoming 3-point contest during All-Star Saturday. The contest is notable as Lillard has not participated in any games this season due to recovery from a torn Achilles tendon.
Lillard’s Participation in the 3-Point Contest
The NBA confirmed Lillard’s participation, adding excitement to the All-Star Saturday event. His appearance is expected to attract considerable attention as it will be featured immediately after NBC’s broadcast of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Event Details
- Date: All-Star Saturday
- Location: Inglewood, California, at the Los Angeles Clippers’ home arena
- Format: 3-point contest followed by the Shooting Stars competition and the dunk contest
Lillard will join an impressive lineup that includes:
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
- Kon Knueppel (Charlotte)
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland)
- Jamal Murray (Denver)
- Bobby Portis Jr. (Milwaukee)
- Norman Powell (Miami)
If Lillard secures a victory, he would become only the third player to win the 3-point contest three times, joining legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges.
Context of Lillard’s Season
Before the current season, Lillard was with the Milwaukee Bucks. He suffered an injury last spring, leading to his release and opportunity to return to the Trail Blazers. This marks his first competitive appearance in front of fans since his return.
Interestingly, Lillard is not the first participant who has not made a 3-pointer in the season of the contest. In 1989, Rimas Kurtinaitis from Lithuania participated without playing in the NBA at that time.
Recent 3-Point Contest Champions
In recent years, Lillard secured back-to-back titles in the 3-point contest in 2023 and 2024. Last season, Tyler Herro won the event, despite significant injuries impacting his current season.
This year’s lineup will be lively and competitive, especially with Lillard aiming to re-establish his impactful presence in the league.
