Damian Lillard’s 3-Point Contest Dream Ends in Disappointment

For Damian Lillard’s fans, Saturday’s All-Star Game was a bittersweet moment. The basketball star, who has dazzled fans with his incredible 3-point shooting, fell short of making history. Lillard was aiming to win his third consecutive 3-point title, but unfortunately, his dream ended early.

Lillard Knocked Out Early

In the first round of the contest, Lillard and Jalen Brunson both scored 18 points, placing them in a tie for fourth place. Unfortunately, only the top three could move on to the final round. Despite his strong performance, Lillard’s hopes of securing the record were dashed as he did not advance.

Herro Takes the Win

While Lillard’s journey ended prematurely, other competitors stood out. Tyler Herro, Buddy Hield, and Darius Garland led the way after round one. Herro ultimately clinched the title with an impressive 24 points, edging out Hield, who finished with 23. Garland, though strong, scored 19 points and settled for third place.

Lillard Announces His Retirement from the 3-Point Contest

Shortly after the contest, Lillard made a shocking announcement. He took to social media, revealing that he would retire from the 3-point contest. His message on X read, “Came up short tonight. Congrats to Tyler. It’s all good… This will be my last one. I’m retiring. Officially retiring.” The Milwaukee Bucks also tweeted their support, acknowledging his decision.

Lillard’s Impact Beyond the Contest

Though his 3-point contest career has come to an end, Lillard’s season continues to shine brightly. The star guard is having an exceptional year with the Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 25.8 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. He is also hitting 39.2% of his 3-point attempts, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top shooters.

A Legacy of Clutch Performances

Lillard’s nickname, “Dame Time,” reflects his clutch performances when his team needs him most. He has built an impressive legacy throughout his career, including winning Rookie of the Year in 2012-2013 and earning All-Star honors seven times. Additionally, he has been named to All-NBA Teams seven times, and is now the all-time top scorer for the Bucks.

What’s Next for Lillard?

Though Lillard is retiring from the 3-point contest, his journey on the court is far from over. His fans can still look forward to many more memorable moments, especially as the Bucks continue to make their mark this season. With his legacy growing, Lillard’s impact on the game will be felt for years to come.

What do you think of Lillard’s decision to retire from the 3-point contest? Do you believe he’ll continue to make history in other ways? Share your thoughts with us and stay tuned for more updates on his incredible career!