Two-time NBA 3-point contest champion Damian Lillard will headline this year’s All-Star Saturday event, the league confirmed. Despite recovering from a torn Achilles tendon and not playing this season, Lillard is set to participate in the contest, marking his first shooting appearance in front of fans since his return to Portland.
Lillard’s presence adds star power to the competition, which features other sharpshooters such as Devin Booker, the 2018 3-point contest winner. The field also includes Charlotte’s Kon Knueppel, Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey, Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell, Denver’s Jamal Murray, Milwaukee’s Bobby Portis Jr., and Miami’s Norman Powell.
Lillard’s Return and Historical Context
Damian Lillard has a unique narrative heading into this event. After spending 11 seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks just before this season but suffered an Achilles injury last spring. Milwaukee waived the remainder of his contract, enabling Lillard to re-sign with Portland. This contest will be his first public on-court activity since rejoining the Trail Blazers.
If Lillard claims victory in this contest, he would join an elite group by becoming only the third player after Larry Bird and Craig Hodges to win the NBA 3-point contest three times. Lillard won the last two contests, showcasing his elite shooting ability despite his current lack of game action.
Changes to All-Star Saturday Events
This year’s All-Star Saturday schedule has been adjusted, with the 3-point contest kicking off the night. Following the contest will be the return of the Shooting Stars competition, succeeded by the dunk contest. The traditional skills challenge has been removed from this year’s festivities.
Notable Absences and Participants
Tyler Herro, last season’s 3-point contest winner, is not on this year’s participant list due to injuries limiting his playing time. The NBA’s lineup highlights both experienced veterans and newer contestants, ensuring a competitive and exciting event.
Contest Participants at a Glance:
- Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
- Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets)
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
- Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
- Bobby Portis Jr. (Milwaukee Bucks)
- Norman Powell (Miami Heat)
Lillard’s role in this year’s contest is notable given he has not yet logged a 3-pointer this season due to injury. Historically, the NBA has included participants without regular-season made 3-pointers, such as Rimas Kurtinaitis in 1989 who never played in the league, emphasizing Lillard’s unique position as a two-time defending champion.
This revamped All-Star Saturday event promises renewed excitement, with Lillard’s participation underscoring a compelling comeback storyline and competitive intensity in the NBA’s premier 3-point shooting showcase.
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