18-year-old college student Jaren Barajas stuns Damian Lillard in a 3-point contest, winning $100K and securing a life-changing opportunity.

In a stunning turn of events during the All-Star Weekend festivities, 18-year-old college student Jaren Barajas defied the odds to beat NBA superstar Damian Lillard in a 3-point shooting contest, walking away with a $100,000 prize.

The teenager, who is a freshman at Los Medanos College studying business, had never expected to find himself in the spotlight, let alone competing against one of the league’s best shooters.

It was a surreal moment for Barajas, who didn’t even know he’d be attending the game until the day before.

Barajas, who now only shoots hoops occasionally at his backyard court, was visiting the Chase Center in San Francisco with his father, Michael.

They had managed to snag tickets after tracking prices, thanks to a stroke of luck. Little did they know, this chance visit would turn into an unforgettable experience. After arriving at the arena, Barajas was unexpectedly invited to participate in the 3-point contest.

During the event, Lillard, the Milwaukee Bucks’ sharpshooter, was given the challenge of hitting three long-range “logo” shots to claim victory.

Barajas, on the other hand, only needed to make one successful shot from deep to win the contest. As the clock ticked down and Lillard missed his final attempt, Barajas had his moment to shine.

With just seconds left, he took a shot from beyond the arc—and sunk it, banking it off the glass, just as his father had always taught him.

“Use the backboard,” his father had always told him. As Barajas recalled, it was his sixth or seventh attempt, and with time running out, he knew he had to make the shot count. The ball hit the backboard and then swished through the net, securing him the unexpected victory.

The win meant much more than just a cash prize. Barajas, who had been focused on his academics and hadn’t played much basketball recently, felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

“This is going to mean the world to me,” he said. “It’s going to help my family a lot and definitely my future. Hopefully, it’ll help me pay for my education, which it will.”

Barajas’ father, who describes himself as “semi-retired,” was also deeply moved by the unexpected windfall. He had been monitoring ticket prices for the event and was overjoyed when he found a deal that fit within his budget.

His surprise for his son, which began as a simple ticket purchase, soon blossomed into an incredible moment they will never forget.

“It was all luck, meant to be, I don’t know,” Michael Barajas said, still in awe of the turn of events. “I can’t believe it.”

The NBA, recognizing the significance of the moment, also pledged to donate $50,000 to Lillard’s newly established scholarship fund. This fund benefits nine high schools in the East Bay, including Barajas’ own community.

An additional $50,000 will go toward the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland and San Francisco, furthering the impact of the All-Star Weekend.

For the Barajas family, the win also represents an opportunity to give back. Michael is proud that his son will not only be able to help with his college expenses but also have the chance to contribute to his community.

Jaren’s win, which came in front of a raucous crowd at the Chase Center, is something that will stay with him forever.

Even NBA legends like Baron Davis took notice of Barajas’ victory. The former Warriors star stopped to congratulate him, impressed by his clutch performance.

“Oh, man, that was amazing, clutch performance at the buzzer, Steph Curry-style,” Davis said, beaming with pride. “In the Bay Area. Give this man his money.”

For Barajas, who had never expected to compete in such a prestigious event, the experience has left him in disbelief. “I just beat Damian Lillard,” he said, still catching his breath after the remarkable feat.

As a college student focused on his future, the prize money will go a long way in helping Barajas fulfill his academic and personal dreams.

What started as a simple day at the All-Star Game turned into a life-changing experience for the young student. With his newfound fame and the $100,000 in prize money, Barajas’ future is looking brighter than ever.

It’s a story of luck, perseverance, and family support—and it’s one that will inspire many for years to come.