All-Star Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California delivered a packed slate of fan-favorite events Friday night before Sunday’s All-Star Game, blending sharpshooting, team precision and high-flying athleticism in front of a roaring crowd – and setting the tone for an electric All-Star Weekend.

Damian Lillard shines in 3-Point Contest

The night kicked off with arguably the most anticipated event – the 3-Point Contest – as Damian Lillard captured his third career All-Star 3-Point crown. Despite being sidelined all season rehabbing a torn Achilles, Lillard poured in the deep balls, edging out Phoenix Suns’ Devin Booker in the final round to tie NBA legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges with three titles in the event’s history. His performance provided one of the biggest feel-good moments of the weekend so far.

Team Knicks dominates Shooting Stars Challenge

Next up was the revived Shooting Stars Challenge – a timed team shooting event that returned to Saturday night for the first time in years. The trio of Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and Knicks legend Allan Houston represented Team Knicks and delivered a composed, clutch performance, finishing with 47 points to defeat Team Cameron in the final round and capture the title.

Keshad Johnson claims first Slam Dunk Contest title

The night closed with the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest, featuring four high-flyers battling for creative supremacy. Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson electrified the crowd with a series of inventive slams – including a windmill and between-the-legs finishes – ultimately outdueling Spurs rookie Carter Bryant in the finals to take home the trophy. Bryant, who had earlier posted a perfect score in the final, came up just short after Johnson’s final round showing.

While some people voiced criticism online about the overall dunk lineup and absence of perennial favorites – notably three-time dunk champ Mac McClung – Johnson’s performance still brought excitement late into the evening and gave the contest a memorable finish.

Celebrity Game continues to entertain

Earlier in the weekend on Friday, the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game drew stars from music, film and sports, with Rome Flynn repeating as MVP and Team Giannis topping Team Anthony 65-58 in a lively celebrity showcase. The event featured performances from names from different celebrities, underscoring the community and entertainment blend that All-Star Weekend champions.

Saturday sets stage for All-Star Game

Between Lillard’s sharpshooting legacy moment, Team Knicks’ precision in Shooting Stars and Johnson’s dunk coronation, All-Star Saturday offered something for every type of fan – from competitive spirit to pure showmanship. With momentum building, attention now shifts to Sunday’s All-Star Game, where superstar rosters assembled earlier in the week will take the court in a unique USA vs. World format designed to crown the weekend’s culminating highlight.