In an unprecedented event, the injured Lillard will vie for his third 3-Point crown in the upcoming All-Star weekend
Credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images North America/Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix
In an interview with Portland Trail Blazers courtside reporter Brooke Olzendam, Damian Lillard explained how he successfully entered his name into the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest.
Portland Trail Blazers / Schedule
"We joked about it," he said. "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.
"I was like, sign me up because I’m dying for some competition right now, and I’m happy to be invited back to do it again."
As the league officially unveiled the full list of participants for this year's three-point shootout last weekend, everyone was surprised to see Lillard on the list, joining Kon Knueppel, Devin Booker, Tyrese Maxey, Jamal Murray, Donovan Mitchell, Bobby Portis Jr. and Norman Powell.
It was indeed shocking since Lillard hasn't played yet this season amid ongoing Achilles tear recovery. He is expected to miss the whole 2025-26 season for Portland.
Despite fans' wondering about his unforeseen participation, Lillard is all in to make history in the 3-Point Contest.
Should he win it, he'll join Larry Bird and Craig Hodges as the only three-time winners in the event's record books.
"I feel great," he said. "I think if there’s anything that I know for 1000% fact I can do really well right now, it’s shoot. Like I said, anytime you can be a part of All-Star Weekend, in our careers, it’s an honor. So to be back again, with the opportunity to tie the record and represent Rip City again, I'm doing it.
"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."
The 3-Point Contest is set for Feb. 14 in the Intuit Dome as part of the All-Star Saturday Night.
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