Damian Lillard Wins Third 3‑Point Contest While Recovering from Torn Achilles
On Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 (ET), Damian Lillard staged a late‑game rally in the NBA 3‑Point Contest to claim his third title, joining Larry Bird and Craig Hodges as the only three‑time champions of the event. Lillard, who has not played in an NBA game since April 27 while rehabbing a torn Achilles, beat Devin Booker and Kon Knueppel in the championship round at the All‑Star weekend event.
Clutch finish after a shaky start
Lillard entered the eight‑player field last and looked in danger of missing the final after a slow start. With three racks complete he had only 13 points and needed a big finish just to qualify. He then turned the contest on its head, draining nine of his final 10 shots to finish the opening round with 27 points and slip into the next stage.
He carried that momentum into the championship round, delivering a near‑flawless set and posting 30 points. Booker, who led the opening round with a 30, appeared poised to steal the title but faltered down the stretch, missing his final three attempts and handing Lillard the win. Lillard later summed up the moment bluntly: "I was praying on his downfall. "
What the victory means for Lillard and Portland
The win is a significant personal milestone for Lillard and a rare bit of positive news for the team that retains his rights. It underscores that, even while his playing calendar remains uncertain as the Achilles heals, his shooting touch is still elite. The trio of 3‑Point Contest crowns places him in select company and offers a reminder of the scoring and shooting prowess that made him an All‑Star across multiple stops in his career.
Basketball has been difficult for Lillard in recent seasons, both from performance struggles after a change of teams and from the major injury that sidelined him. He signed a multi‑year deal to return to the club last offseason with the understanding that an on‑court return might not occur this season. Still, his showing at the event offers a boost of confidence for teammates, coaches and fans that one of the league's most feared shooters could be ready to contribute at full strength when the recovery allows.
Legacy moment — and a reminder of patience
Beyond the immediate celebration, Lillard's third title injects a storyline into the narrative of his comeback: elite shooters can maintain their craft through rehab and repetition. The victory at the All‑Star weekend’s showcase will not hasten medical timetables, but it gives the organization and its fan base tangible evidence that the fundamentals remain intact.
The 3‑Point Contest took place in front of a charged crowd at the venue, where Lillard's late‑game drama provided one of the weekend's standout moments. As the season progresses, the focus will return to his rehabilitation plan and when he might lace up for game action again. For now, Lillard leaves the weekend as a three‑time champion and a reminder that a shooter’s work can pay off even amid adversity.
