Damian Lillard Bows Out: The End of an Era in the Three-Point Contest

It’s official: Damian Lillard, one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, has decided to walk away from the Three-Point Contest. The Milwaukee Bucks superstar, who won back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024, confirmed that this year’s event was his last.

Lillard’s departure marks the end of an era, as he was not just a competitor but a showman in the contest. His signature deep threes, effortless shooting motion, and clutch performances made him a fan favorite. However, Father Time and a new generation of snipers have signaled that it’s time for Dame to step aside.

A Disappointing Final Run

Lillard’s farewell to the Three-Point Contest was far from ideal. In this year’s competition, he failed to advance past the first round, managing only 18 points—an underwhelming performance for someone of his caliber. The contest was ultimately won by Tyler Herro, who dropped 24 points in the final round, edging out Buddy Hield by a single point.

Despite the anticlimactic finish, Lillard’s legacy in the contest is undeniable. He exits as a two-time champion, having cemented his place among the greats. His victory in 2023 was particularly memorable, as he secured the title in thrilling fashion with a clutch final rack that sent the crowd into a frenzy.

The Changing of the Guard

Lillard’s decision to step away is symbolic of the NBA’s constant evolution. The league is now flooded with elite shooters, many of whom grew up idolizing players like Lillard, Stephen Curry, and Ray Allen. Herro’s victory is a testament to that transition. The Miami Heat guard has developed into one of the league’s deadliest marksmen, and his win signals the arrival of the next wave of sharpshooters ready to take center stage.

As Lillard put it, “When you don’t know when to retire, the young guys will let you know.” It’s a candid acknowledgment that time waits for no one, not even the greatest of shooters.

The Dominance of the Dunk Contest

While the Three-Point Contest has gained prominence in recent years, the Slam Dunk Contest remains the NBA’s most electrifying All-Star event. This year’s competition featured Spurs rookie Sidy Cissoko, Bucks forward Andre Jackson Jr., Bulls prospect Matas Buzelis, and Magic high-flyer Mac McClung.

McClung, a name that has become synonymous with dunking excellence, made history by winning his third straight dunk contest. He delivered four perfect 50s across the competition, putting on a jaw-dropping display of athleticism and creativity.

His final two dunks left the judges and fans in awe. The first was a tribute to Aaron Gordon and JaVale McGee, a double-ball windmill dunk over a person. The second? A gravity-defying, mid-air adjustment that saw him hang in the air longer than humanly possible before slamming it home.

Standing at just 6’2” and being a white player in a contest often dominated by taller, more physically gifted athletes, McClung continues to defy expectations. His presence has reinvigorated a dunk contest that had lost its luster in recent years.

The Financial Reality of NBA Fringe Players

McClung’s dunk contest dominance has earned him a total of $310,000 in prize money—more than double his total NBA career earnings of $132,000. The disparity highlights a harsh reality: While McClung is an All-Star Weekend legend, he has yet to carve out a meaningful role in an actual NBA rotation.

The former G League standout has bounced between teams, with brief stints in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia before landing with Orlando. However, his playing time remains scarce. This season, he has logged just one NBA game, playing five minutes and recording zero points, one rebound, and two assists.

Despite his limited NBA opportunities, McClung has been a force in the G League. In 15 games for the Magic’s affiliate, he has averaged 24.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists on 51.9% shooting. His stats prove he’s far more than just a dunker—he’s a legitimate scorer and playmaker.

The Overseas Temptation

With NBA minutes hard to come by, McClung is reportedly drawing interest from overseas. A well-known Chinese basketball outlet recently reported that the Shanghai Sharks have been closely monitoring McClung’s progress and even offered him a $1 million tax-free contract—far more than he’s earned from his dunk contest winnings.

For a player like McClung, the decision isn’t easy. Staying in the NBA, even in a limited role, keeps the dream alive. But moving abroad offers financial security and an opportunity to be a featured star. Many before him—such as Stephon Marbury and Jimmer Fredette—have made the leap and thrived in international leagues.

If McClung does decide to take his talents overseas, it would mark another example of a high-flying dunker carving out a career outside the NBA. He may not be making highlight reels in the NBA, but his name is already etched in dunk contest history.

A Commentary on Lillard’s Retirement from the Contest

Damian Lillard’s exit from the Three-Point Contest is a reminder that no player, no matter how great, can outrun time. The torch is being passed to a new generation, and while it’s bittersweet, it’s also exciting. Players like Herro, Hield, and even future stars yet to emerge will carry the legacy forward.

Meanwhile, Mac McClung’s story is a fascinating subplot. He’s an All-Star Weekend superstar yet struggles for recognition in the regular season. His situation highlights the unique dynamics of the NBA—a league where talent doesn’t always translate to opportunity.

Whether McClung stays in the NBA or takes the overseas route, one thing is clear: The Three-Point Contest and Dunk Contest have provided unforgettable moments, and the game continues to evolve. The legends of yesterday make way for the stars of tomorrow.