SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jaren Barajas, now an 18-year-old college freshman, has found it challenging to find time for basketball, managing to practice on his backyard hoop about once a month due to his academic commitments.

However, on Sunday night, in front of a global audience, Barajas impressively triumphed over NBA superstar Damian Lillard in a thrilling three-point shooting contest during the All-Star Game, securing a prize of $100,000.

Barajas described the experience as “life-changing.”

“This means everything to me; it will significantly help my family and definitely my future,” he stated. “I hope it will assist in paying for my education, which it will.”

In the contest, Lillard had to hit three long shots from the logo to win, while Barajas only needed to make one shot from a considerable distance. As the clock wound down and Lillard missed his final chance, Barajas took one last shot and made it.

He scored using the backboard, just as his father had always advised: to use the glass for better accuracy. This was likely his sixth or seventh attempt, although neither he nor his dad could recall the exact number.

“With only 30 seconds left, my dad always tells me to use the backboard,” Barajas reflected. “I knew I had to do that to secure the shot.”

Lillard appreciated the dramatic turn of events.

“It was quite the finish, he made it just as the time expired,” said Lillard, an Oakland native. “I enjoy being involved in moments like that where I can make a difference for someone else.”

Interestingly, Barajas wasn’t even expected to attend the game, despite having hoped to be part of it since Chase Center secured the 2025 NBA All-Star Game.

“I was surprised with these tickets just yesterday, so I didn’t even know I was coming,” Barajas shared, expressing his gratitude for the surreal experience.

His father, Michael, monitored ticket prices meticulously before finding an affordable option late Saturday. He excitedly shared the good news with Jaren. They arrived early at the arena from their home in Oakley and, by a stroke of luck, Jaren was invited to take part in the contest. It was an emotional moment for both father and son.

“He really wanted to go to the game, but the prices were high, so I kept watching as they dropped,” Michael recounted. “Once I found a price I could manage, I bought the tickets as a surprise for him. I can’t believe we ended up here; I’m glad I did it. He deserves this, and I’m very proud of him.”

Former Warriors star Baron Davis stopped by to congratulate Jaren, who was also greeted by excited fans asking for photos.

“That was incredible—such a clutch performance, just like Steph Curry!” a thrilled Davis remarked, adding, “In the Bay Area, give this man his money!”

The NBA announced it would donate $50,000 to Lillard’s newly created scholarship fund for nine high schools in the East Bay, in addition to $50,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland and San Francisco.

Lillard expressed gratitude for the opportunity to make a positive impact.

“I knew this would be a win-win scenario. It’s beneficial for my scholarship partnership, and it’s wonderful for someone else, too,” Lillard noted. “That was why I participated. I was just thrilled to witness his genuine excitement. This is life-altering for someone.”

Michael Barajas, who describes himself as “semi-retired,” understands that the prize money will not only assist with Jaren’s college expenses but also give him an opportunity to contribute back to the community.

Jaren is currently a business freshman at Los Medanos College, a community college in Pittsburg, with plans to transfer eventually.

“It feels purely lucky, like it was meant to happen. I still can’t believe it,” Michael said, reflecting on their unbelievable experience.

Meanwhile, Jaren was still trying to process the amazing event he had just experienced.

“I just outshot Damian Lillard.”

___

For more NBA updates, visit: https://apnews.com/NBA