Damian Lillard hasn’t played a game this season as he is still recovering from an ACL injury he suffered in the 2025 playoffs. His closest return to NBA action came during the NBA All-Star Weekend Three-Point Contest.
He triumphed over seven other players who had their shooting tested during the first half of the season. Lillard may be lacking game action, but not determination.
Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
The Portland Trail Blazers star shared after the contest that he has been in the gym working on his shot and preparing hard for the event as if he were about to play in a game again.
“I get up every day, and my mind is, like, engaged in being able to play the game,” he said.
“I knew it was an opportunity to get back on this stage. I keep saying it, but being a part of some competition. I’m going one-on-zero with myself every single day, trying to get numbers and trying to perform better and better and be healthier and healthier. So just to be amongst other players and put a number on the board, some time, some fans, stuff like that, I was excited for it.”
DAME IS BACK! DAMIAN LILLARD — WITH A TORN ACHILLES — JUST DROPPED 27 POINTS IN THE FIRST ROUND & ADVANCED TO THE FINAL ROUND! 🎯
THAT is how you make a return to the contest! pic.twitter.com/Qil4A8iPZ5
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) February 14, 2026
Damian Lillard on top
This is Lillard’s third Three-Point Contest win in the last four years. He won it back-to-back in 2023 and 2024.
This means he is now tied with Larry Bird and Craig Hodges for the most wins ever. The Boston Celtics legend won it three straight years from 1986 to 1988, while Hodges ruled the contest from 1990 to 1992.
Dame Dolla. 3x champ. 🏆🏆🏆
Damian Lillard becomes the third 3-time winner of the NBA 3-Point Contest, joining Larry Bird (1986–88) and Craig Hodges (1990–92). pic.twitter.com/ywdksxs2b5
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 15, 2026
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