On February 14, 2026, in Los Angeles at the Intuit Dome, Devin Booker showcased his sharp shooting skills in the NBA 3-point contest during All-Star Saturday Night, delivering a near-perfect performance but ultimately finishing second behind Damian Lillard. Despite his impressive play, Booker missed out on becoming a two-time champion by a narrow two-point margin.
Devin Booker’s Strong Start in the Three-Point Contest
As the 2026 NBA 3-point contest kicked off, Booker, representing the Phoenix Suns, came out firing with a remarkable first-round score of 30 points, the highest of the night. His shooting was steady, with smooth mechanics and confident rhythm that suggested he was a strong contender for the title. This performance gained a lot of attention, setting high expectations as the competition progressed into the finals alongside Damian Lillard and rookie wildcard Kon Knueppel.
Final Showdown at the 3-Point Contest
In the final round, Booker faced intense pressure to match or surpass Lillard’s strong score of 29 points, with Knueppel trailing at 17. Knowing that 30 was possible based on his first round, Booker approached the racks with confidence. However, the money balls, which typically held more weight, felt heavier than usual. The last three shots, all crucial chances to tie or secure the lead, failed to find the basket, leaving Booker just two points short of victory.
The Impact of Booker’s Performance Despite Narrow Defeat
Although the loss was a disappointment for Booker and Suns fans, the contest was about more than just the trophy. Had Booker won, he would have joined the exclusive group of nine players to win the contest twice, setting a record for the longest gap between titles. While that historic achievement slipped away, his ability to perform under immense pressure signals a promising trajectory. Suns supporters are encouraged by Booker’s resilience and execution in a high-stakes environment.
“Suns’ Dillon Brooks officially suspended by NBA, will miss game against Spurs”
– Dillon Brooks, Suns Player
As the NBA season continues, the Suns will face challenges on multiple fronts, including suspensions such as that of Dillon Brooks. Yet, Booker’s display at the All-Star contest highlights his growing stature in the league and raises expectations for the team’s upcoming contests.
