This past weekend, the NBA All-Star festivities unfolded at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. Devin Booker represented the Phoenix Suns in the three-point contest and also played in the All-Star game, continuing his strong performance throughout the season. Booker appeared to be a frontrunner in the three-point competition but struggled in the final moments of his last rack, ultimately losing to Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers.
Booker Reflects on the Loss and Looks Toward Future Contests
After the event, Booker openly shared his emotions regarding the outcome and looked ahead to the 2027 All-Star weekend, which will be hosted in Phoenix. He expressed regret about missing the chance to defend his title on home turf and suggested that next year’s contest might be his last appearance in the event. Addressing his feelings, Booker said,
“This one hurt a little bit. I wanted this one bad. Wish I was defending it in Phoenix but it’ll probably be the last time I do it next year if I get the invite. I’m looking forward to it,”
said Booker, per Duane Rankin of AZ Central on X, formerly Twitter.
Given his status and recent performance, Booker is expected to be invited again for the 2024 three-point contest, which will take place in Phoenix. However, his recent showing likely left him with a sense that victory slipped away, especially since he entered the final moments with a strong position before faltering.
Lillard Claims Third Title Amid Hints at Future Matchups
Damian Lillard’s victory marked his third triumph in the three-point contest, denying Booker a second career win in this competition. Lillard has also suggested on Instagram that he hopes to face off again next year alongside notable shooters such as Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. This anticipated rivalry adds excitement to the upcoming events and highlights the competitive spirit among elite shooters in the league.
Focus Shifts Back to Phoenix Suns’ Season Prospects
With the All-Star break concluding, Devin Booker and the Suns are refocusing on the current NBA season, where Phoenix has emerged as one of the more surprising teams. The Suns hold a solid chance to clinch a top-six seed in the highly competitive Western Conference as they approach the final stages of the regular season. Phoenix is preparing for their next game on the road against the San Antonio Spurs this Thursday evening, aiming to maintain their strong position.
Significance of Booker’s Statement and Season Outlook
Booker’s comments about potentially making his final three-point contest appearance in Phoenix in 2027 signify a moment of reflection on his career and legacy in the league. His ongoing pursuit of excellence continues to engage fans and heighten expectations for the Suns’ success in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, the rivalry between top shooters like Booker, Lillard, Curry, and Thompson promises to keep fans invested in the three-point contest for years ahead.
Devin Booker said next year may very well be the last time he competes in the NBA All-Star 3-point contest as he lost, 29-27, to Damian Lillard in this year's final.
"This one hurt a little bit. I wanted this one bad. Wish I was defending it in Phoenix but it'll probably be the…
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) February 16, 2026
