Damian Lillard Ties Legends Bird and Hodges in Rare 3-Point Contest Feat

Portland star joins elite company with third All-Star Saturday triumph.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Damian Lillard etched his name alongside NBA legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges, capturing his third 3-Point Contest title at the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco. The Portland Trail Blazers guard overcame a season-ending torn Achilles injury to deliver a clutch 29-point performance in the final round, cementing his status as one of the greatest long-range shooters in league history.

Why it matters

Lillard's achievement reinforces his place among the greatest shooters in NBA history, joining an exclusive club with Bird and Hodges. His ability to perform at a high level while recovering from a devastating injury also demonstrates his resilience and transcendent skills.

The details

Damian Lillard defeated a strong field that included Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker, who finished second with 27 points, and Duke standout Kon Knueppel, who placed third with 17 points. Lillard's victory adds another chapter to his impressive legacy, as he previously won the 3-Point Contest in 2023 and 2024.

  • Lillard suffered a season-ending torn Achilles injury in April 2025.
  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend took place in San Francisco.

The players

Damian Lillard

A star guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who has now won the 3-Point Contest three times, tying the record held by NBA legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges.

Larry Bird

A Hall of Fame forward who dominated the 3-Point Contest in the late 1980s, winning it three consecutive times from 1986 to 1988.

Craig Hodges

A former NBA player who also won the 3-Point Contest three times in a row, from 1990 to 1992.

Devin Booker

A guard for the Phoenix Suns who finished second in the 3-Point Contest with 27 points.

Kon Knueppel

A Duke standout who represented the younger generation of shooters and placed third in the 3-Point Contest with 17 points.

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What’s next

As the regular season resumes following All-Star Weekend, basketball fans will eagerly anticipate Damian Lillard's return to game action with the Portland Trail Blazers.

The takeaway

Damian Lillard's historic 3-Point Contest victory, which ties him with NBA legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges, solidifies his place among the greatest shooters in league history and demonstrates his resilience in overcoming a devastating injury.