The 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest is almost here, but a surprising participant has everyone talking! The league has unveiled the lineup for this highly anticipated event, and it's packed with familiar faces and exciting newcomers. But here's where it gets controversial: one of the selected players is currently sidelined with a season-ending injury.
Get ready for some serious sharpshooting as the NBA's best long-range bombers gather for the 2026 3-Point Contest! This year's competition promises to be a thrilling spectacle, featuring a blend of seasoned champions and fresh talent all vying for the coveted title.
When Can You Tune In?
Mark your calendars! The electrifying 3-Point Contest is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 14th, with the action tipping off at 5 p.m. ET (2 p.m. PT). This exciting event is the perfect prelude to the main NBA All-Star Game, serving as the second major event on All-Star Saturday.
Who's Stepping Up to the Challenge?
The eight-player field has been officially announced, and it's a roster that includes some of the league's most lethal shooters. Here's the full lineup:
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
- Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets)
- Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
- Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
- Bobby Portis Jr. (Milwaukee Bucks)
- Norman Powell (Miami Heat)
A Look at the Contenders:
Among this elite group, we have two former champions ready to make their mark again: Damian Lillard, who has claimed the title in 2023 and 2024, and Devin Booker, a champion from 2018. Lillard, at 35 years old, is on the cusp of potentially tying the all-time record of three contest wins, a feat currently shared by legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges. This pursuit alone adds a significant layer of drama to the event.
And this is the part most people miss: While Lillard is celebrated for his past victories, his inclusion is unprecedented. He's currently out for the season to recover from a torn Achilles. Is it fair to include an injured player in a shooting competition? This decision has definitely sparked debate among fans and analysts alike.
On the flip side, Tyrese Maxey, Bobby Portis Jr., Jamal Murray, and rookie sensation Kon Knueppel will be making their highly anticipated debuts in this prestigious contest. Their fresh energy and unknown potential could lead to some stunning upsets.
Who Holds the Crown?
Last year, in the 2025 3-Point Contest, Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro emerged victorious, narrowly defeating Damian Lillard and preventing him from achieving a remarkable three-peat. Herro's performance was a masterclass in clutch shooting, and he'll be looking to see if any of this year's contenders can dethrone him, even though he's not participating this year.
How to Catch All the Action:
Don't miss a single swish! You can catch all the excitement of NBA All-Star Saturday, including the 3-Point Contest, as well as Sunday's main event, the NBA All-Star Game, live on NBC. For those who prefer to stream, the entire weekend's festivities will also be available on Peacock.
What are your thoughts on Damian Lillard's inclusion in the 3-Point Contest despite his injury? Do you think he still has a chance to win, or is it unfair to other participants? Let us know in the comments below!
