Get ready for an exciting showdown as the NBA reveals its eight-player lineup for the highly anticipated 2026 Three-Point Contest! This event, set to take place on February 14 at 4:00 pm CT, promises to be a thrilling spectacle. But here's where it gets controversial...
The NBA's Three-Point Contest: A Battle of Champions and Rising Stars
The NBA has unveiled the participants for this year's three-point shootout, and it's a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talents. Let's dive into the lineup and explore some intriguing storylines!
Devin Booker (Suns): A former three-point contest champion, Booker is known for his sharp shooting. However, this season, his long-range accuracy has dipped to a career-low 30.7%. Will he be able to find his range and reclaim his title?
Kon Knueppel (Hornets): As the No. 4 overall pick, Knueppel has a chance to make history. According to the league, he could become the first rookie to win the event. With an impressive 42.8% success rate on high-volume attempts (7.8 per game), he's a force to be reckoned with.
Damian Lillard (Trail Blazers): Lillard's inclusion is a surprise, given his Achilles tendon injury last April. Despite missing the entire season, the nine-time All-Star and two-time three-point contest winner is determined to compete. Can he overcome the odds and add another title to his resume?
Tyrese Maxey (Sixers) and Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers): These two are the highest-volume three-point shooters in the field, with Maxey averaging 8.8 attempts and Mitchell at 9.7 per game. They're also the top scorers, making them key contenders.
Bobby Portis (Bucks): Portis is the lone big man in the competition and has been the most accurate three-point shooter this season, converting 45.1% of his attempts (4.3 per game). His size and shooting ability make him a unique threat.
Jamal Murray (Nuggets) and Norman Powell (Heat): Both first-time All-Stars, Murray and Powell are having exceptional seasons. Murray is shooting 43.2% from deep on 7.5 attempts, while Powell is at 39.3% on 7.2 attempts. Their consistency and scoring prowess make them strong contenders.
And this is the part most people miss... Last year's winner, Tyler Herro, had to decline his invitation due to a rib injury. He chose to focus on his health during the All-Star break.
The 2026 Three-Point Contest is shaping up to be an epic battle. Who do you think will emerge victorious? Will it be a seasoned veteran like Lillard or Booker, or will a rising star like Knueppel or Maxey steal the show? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments! The NBA's three-point contest is always a highlight, and this year promises to be no exception.
