While the NBA world was busy wondering when we would finally see Damian Lillard back on the hardwood following his Achilles tear, “Dame” decided to provide an answer in his own signature style—with the legendary shooting touch that made him an icon. Lillard has now secured his third 3-Point Contest title in the last four years.
His path to the trophy started almost by accident. While discussing All-Star break vacation plans with Michael Levine (NBA Senior VP), Lillard issued a casual challenge: “If y’all need someone to shoot, I’m available.” What began as a joke turned into reality when a spot opened up in the bracket.
The competition was fierce from start to finish:
Devin Booker led the pack with a blistering 30 points. Lillard and rookie Kon Knueppel advanced with 27.
The Hornets rookie stalled at 17 points, leaving the door wide open. Lillard took advantage, putting on a clinic to finish with 29.
Booker, shooting last, reached his final “money ball” rack with 27 points. However, he missed his last three triples, handing the trophy back to the Blazers star.”I came in confident and fresh,” Lillard stated after the win. “This year away from the court has refreshed my mind and body.”
With this victory, Lillard enters one of the most exclusive clubs in basketball history. He is now only the third player ever to win the event three times, joining the ranks of legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges. Furthermore, he is just the second player (following Voshon Lenard in 2005) to compete in the shootout while rehabbing a torn Achilles.
Even without logging a single official minute this season, the message remains loud and clear: it is never a good idea to bet against Dame Time.
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