Glenn Coleman
Feb 18, 2024 - 07:05

Bucks Damian Lillard relaxed approach earns second consecutive 3-point contest win

Damian Lillard wins 2024 NBA 3-Point Contest, Malik Beasley works hard but Lillard says just show up and shoot.

Milwaukee Bucks shooting guard Malik Beasley spent weeks working on his strategy for the 2024 NBA 3-Point Contest. After three seasons of trying to get an invite, Beasley wasn't going to waste his opportunity. He spent extra time at the Bucks' practice facility to simulate the contest with members of the Bucks video room filling up racks for him around the 3-point line.

Meanwhile, his teammate Damian Lillard had a different approach. Lillard didn't prepare at all and advised Beasley to do the same. Lillard shared his experience, explaining that he had practiced and prepared in the past, but only won when he didn't practice and just showed up to shoot.

Lillard's unconventional approach paid off as he won the 2024 NBA 3-Point Contest, becoming the first player to win back-to-back NBA 3-Point Contests since Jason Kapono in 2007 and '08. He tied with three other shooters in the first round and led all four shooters in the 30-second tiebreaker round, securing his victory in the final round.

Lillard credited his success to the advantage of going last in both rounds, allowing him to see the target and know what he needed to beat. He faced pressure and confusion during the contest, but ultimately came through in the clutch to win.

Despite the challenges, Lillard found this year's contest more satisfying, as all the participants shot well. He expressed his desire to defend his title in the future and win a third straight 3-point contest, emphasizing the importance of just showing up and shooting.

Lillard's victory serves as a reminder that sometimes, less preparation can lead to better results. His experience highlights the importance of finding the right approach and having confidence in one's abilities. As Lillard looks ahead to future contests, he seems to have the formula figured out - just show up and shoot.