In his inaugural All-Star Game appearance with the Eastern Conference, Damian Lillard made an indelible mark on the game by earning the coveted title of Most Valuable Player. Lillard became the second player apart from Michael Jordan in 1988, when he won the Dunk contest and scored 40 points in the All-Star game. The Milwaukee Bucks guard put on an outstanding performance, finishing with an impressive record-breaking score of 39 points, 11 3-pointers, six assists, three rebounds, and one steal, which contributed to the Eastern Conference’s 211-186 win over the West.
Lillard’s shooting was impeccable, as he managed to make 14 of his 26 shots from the floor, including an incredible 11 of 23 on 3-pointers. His contribution ensured that his team broke All-Star Game records for total points and 3s, with a remarkable 42 scores. Notably, Lillard was not the only player who shone in the game; eight players scored in double figures, with three of them, Lillard, Boston guard Jaylen Brown, and Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton, all topping 30 points. Karl Anthony-Towns of Minnesota also had a remarkable 50 points for the West.
This feat comes on the heels of Lillard’s second consecutive victory in the 3-point contest, which he won while playing for the Portland Trail Blazers. With such an impressive performance, Lillard has certainly cemented his place as one of the best players in the league.