NBA All-Star Saturday Night 2026: What to Watch, Who’s Competing, and Why Damian Lillard's Return to the 3-Point Contest Matters
All-Star Weekend is always a celebration of basketball’s brightest stars, but this year, there's an extra layer of nostalgia. Damian Lillard may not be suiting up for the Trail Blazers in regular-season action right now, but fans will still get a dose of Dame Time during Saturday night’s 3-point contest - and that alone is worth tuning in for.
The festivities kick off Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 2 p.m. PT / 5 p.m.
ET (3 p.m. MST), broadcast live on NBC and streaming on Peacock.
It’s a full slate of competitions that blend sharpshooting, high-flying dunks, and a bit of family flair - all with the kind of energy you only get at All-Star Weekend.
Lillard Eyes 3-Point Crown No. 3
Let’s start with the main event for Portland fans: Damian Lillard is back in the 3-point contest, aiming to win his third title. Few players in the league have the kind of deep-range confidence and quick release that Lillard brings to the table. He’s not just a volume shooter - he’s a momentum-shifter, the kind of player who can catch fire and turn the contest into a highlight reel.
He’ll face stiff competition, though. Devin Booker, another elite shooter with a smooth stroke and playoff-tested confidence, is in the field.
So is Donovan Mitchell, who’s more than capable of heating up from beyond the arc. Jamal Murray brings his postseason poise, while Tyrese Maxey adds a burst of youthful energy and rhythm shooting.
Rounding out the field are Bobby Portis, Norman Powell, and rookie Kon Knueppel - a rising name to watch, especially as he gets his first taste of the All-Star spotlight.
Full 3-Point Contest Roster:
- Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
- Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks)
- Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets)
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets)
- Norman Powell (Miami Heat)
With this mix of seasoned vets and emerging stars, the 3-point contest is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. And with Lillard chasing history, there’s more than just bragging rights on the line.
Shooting Stars: A Blend of Legacy, Loyalty, and College Ties
The Shooting Stars event brings together current NBA players, legends, and rising stars - and this year’s lineups offer a fun mix of family ties and franchise pride.
Team Knicks features Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and former New York sharpshooter Allan Houston, now serving as the Knicks’ VP. It’s a team built on shooting touch and a connection to the Garden faithful.
Team Harper is a true family affair: Dylan Harper, Ron Harper Jr., and their father, five-time NBA champion Ron Harper Sr. That’s three generations of hoops knowledge and competitive fire on one squad.
Team Cameron brings the Duke connection to the forefront, with Jalen Johnson, rookie Kon Knueppel (pulling double duty this weekend), and former NBA wing Corey Maggette. Expect smooth ball movement and plenty of Blue Devil chemistry.
Dunk Contest: New Names, Big Hops
This year’s dunk contest might not have the marquee names of past years, but don’t let that fool you - the athleticism is real, and the creativity could steal the show.
Carter Bryant (San Antonio Spurs) and Keshad Johnson (Miami Heat) are the kind of explosive leapers who can turn a simple alley-oop into a jaw-dropper. Jaxson Hayes (Los Angeles Lakers) brings size and power to the rim, while Jase Richardson (Orlando Magic) - son of former dunk contest winner Jason Richardson - will look to carry on the family legacy with flair.
This is a contest built on potential and fresh faces, which often leads to the most surprising and memorable moments.
How to Watch NBA All-Star Saturday Night
- When: Saturday, February 14, 2026
- Time: 2 p.m.
PT / 5 p.m. ET (3 p.m.
MST)
- TV: NBC
- Streaming: Peacock
Whether you're tuning in for the long-range fireworks, the mid-air artistry, or just to see a few familiar faces in new roles, All-Star Saturday Night promises to deliver. And with Damian Lillard stepping back into the spotlight, Trail Blazers fans - and basketball fans in general - have every reason to watch.