Damian Lillard to Compete in NBA 3-Point Contest Despite Injury

The injured Trail Blazers star will vie for his third 3-Point crown during All-Star Weekend

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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In an unprecedented move, injured Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard will compete in the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest during All-Star Weekend, despite being sidelined for the entire 2025-26 season due to an Achilles tear. Lillard explained in an interview how he jokingly mentioned his availability to a friend in the league, and the opportunity then opened up for him to participate.

Why it matters

Lillard's participation in the 3-Point Contest is surprising, as he has not played at all this season due to his injury. However, the league and fans are excited to see the three-time 3-Point Contest champion compete again, as he has a chance to tie the record for most wins in the event's history.

The details

Lillard revealed that he jokingly mentioned to a friend in the league that he would be available to compete in the 3-Point Contest, and the opportunity then materialized. Despite his ongoing recovery, Lillard is confident in his shooting ability and is eager to represent the Portland fanbase once again on the All-Star stage.

  • Lillard is expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season due to an Achilles tear.
  • The 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest is scheduled to take place on February 14 as part of the All-Star Saturday Night festivities.

The players

Damian Lillard

A star point guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who is a three-time 3-Point Contest champion and is currently sidelined for the 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury.

Brooke Olzendam

The courtside reporter for the Portland Trail Blazers who interviewed Lillard about his 3-Point Contest participation.

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What they’re saying

“We joked about it. I was just talking to a friend in the league and talking about All-Star Weekend and me going on a vacation, and I kind of joked like, man, I'm available to do it. I don't think there was a slot available, and then one became available. He asked if I would really do it, and I was like, yeah, if I'm allowed to do it.”

— Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Star (basketnews.com)

“I'm excited for the opportunity to be a part of some competition and be a part of the game. That's it — just go out there, have some fun, and try to win another one.”

— Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Star (basketnews.com)

What’s next

The 3-Point Contest is set for Feb. 14 in the Intuit Dome as part of the All-Star Saturday Night festivities.

The takeaway

Damian Lillard's unexpected participation in the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest, despite being sidelined for the season, highlights his dedication to the game and his desire to compete at the highest level. This move will excite fans and give Lillard a chance to cement his legacy as one of the greatest 3-point shooters in NBA history.