Eighteen-year-old Jalen Barajas recently participated in a 3-point shooting contest during the NBA All-Star Game, defeating Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard and winning $100,000. Jalen, a busy college freshman focused on academics, described the moment as “life-changing,” expressing hope that the winnings would help his family and support his education. During the contest, he made a crucial shot based on his father’s advice to use the backboard, while Lillard needed to make three difficult shots to win.
Despite not initially knowing he would be participating, Jalen’s father, Michael Barajas, surprised him with tickets after monitoring prices and managing to find affordable ones. They arrived at the arena early, and Jalen was selected to take part in the contest, much to their disbelief.
Former Warriors star Baron Davis praised Jalen’s performance, highlighting its clutch nature, while the NBA announced that Lillard’s scholarship fund would receive a $50,000 donation, matched by a $50,000 contribution to local Boys and Girls Clubs. Lillard expressed his satisfaction with how the event could positively impact many lives. Michael Barajas, who is semi-retired, noted that this prize money not only helps with Jalen’s education but also allows him to repay his son in some way. Jalen remains in awe of his experience, reflecting on the thrill of defeating Damian Lillard.
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