Damian Lillard to Compete in 3-Point Contest at All-Star Saturday

Injured Blazers star will make surprise appearance in shooting event despite not playing this season

Feb. 8, 2026 at 7:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Damian Lillard, the star point guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who has not played this season due to a torn Achilles tendon, will participate in the 3-point contest at the NBA All-Star Saturday event. The contest will air immediately following NBC's coverage of the Winter Olympics, potentially drawing high viewership. Lillard, a two-time 3-point contest champion, will be looking to become only the third player to win the event three times.

Why it matters

Lillard's participation in the 3-point contest is unexpected, as he has not played at all this season due to his injury. His return to the court, even in an exhibition event, will generate significant interest and excitement among NBA fans. The timing of the contest, airing right after the Olympics coverage, also suggests the NBA is hoping to capitalize on heightened viewership.

The details

Lillard will be joining a field that includes 2018 3-point contest champion Devin Booker, as well as other notable shooters like Tyrese Maxey, Donovan Mitchell, and Norman Powell. If Lillard were to win, he would join an exclusive club of just three players who have won the 3-point contest three times.

  • The 3-point contest will take place on All-Star Saturday, February 17, 2026.
  • The contest will air immediately following NBC's coverage of the Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.

The players

Damian Lillard

A star point guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who has not played this season due to a torn Achilles tendon, but will make a surprise appearance in the 3-point contest at All-Star Saturday.

Devin Booker

The Phoenix Suns guard who won the 3-point contest in 2018 and will be competing again this year.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The 3-point contest will take place on All-Star Saturday, February 17, 2026 in Inglewood, California.

The takeaway

Damian Lillard's surprise appearance in the 3-point contest, despite not playing this NBA season, will generate significant interest and excitement among fans. The event's prime-time slot following the Olympics coverage suggests the NBA is hoping to capitalize on heightened viewership and showcase one of the league's biggest stars.