When talking about the greatest three-point shooters ever, one name instantly comes to mind: Stephen Curry. Leading the all-time three-pointers list, Curry transformed the game with his remarkable shooting skills. Curry’s stats are staggering: over 3,000 three-pointers made and counting. His ability to shoot from almost anywhere on the floor redefined what was possible in basketball. Many attribute the current era of three-point-heavy strategies directly to his play style.
Ray Allen, another legend, held the record before Curry came storming through. During his time in the NBA, Allen made 2,973 three-pointers. Fans still remember his clutch three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals for the Miami Heat that helped secure the championship. Allen’s impeccable shooting form and consistency over an 18-year career made him a perennial threat from beyond the arc.
Reggie Miller always belongs in this conversation. He finished his career with 2,560 three-pointers and a reputation for making shots when it mattered most. Miller famously led the Indiana Pacers to numerous playoff appearances and had a knack for hitting crucial shots under pressure. The iconic game against the New York Knicks in the 1995 playoffs, where he scored eight points in nine seconds, remains etched in NBA history.
The evolution of the three-point shot owes much to Larry Bird, who set the stage in the 1980s. Although Bird’s total of 649 three-pointers may seem modest today, his impact was monumental. Bird won the first three Three-Point Shootout contests during All-Star Weekend, showing the world the power and potential of the three-point line. His career with the Boston Celtics is legendary, and his rivalry with Magic Johnson represents one of the best eras in NBA history.
James Harden must be acknowledged too. The former MVP has made over 2,550 three-pointers and continues to be a prolific scorer. Harden’s step-back three-pointer is nearly impossible to defend. It's not just the sheer number of threes he makes, but the difficulty and creativity of his shots that have set him apart. Harden has also made headlines playing for teams like the Houston Rockets and the Brooklyn Nets.
Another modern-day star to consider is Damian Lillard. With more than 2,000 three-pointers in his career, Lillard’s range is virtually limitless, often pulling up from well beyond the arc. Lillard's ability to hit buzzer-beaters and win games singlehandedly has earned him the nickname "Dame Time." Some of his most memorable moments include playoff game-winners that have sent opponents packing. His performance in the 2021 NBA Playoffs, where he hit 12 three-pointers in a single game, is a testament to his shooting prowess.
Klay Thompson, Stephen Curry’s partner in crime with the Golden State Warriors, also deserves mention. Over 1,900 three-pointers and counting, he’s considered one of the purest shooters of all time. A five-time NBA All-Star, Thompson has been crucial to the Warriors' success, including their three championships. His record-setting 14 three-pointers in a single game in 2018 showcases just how explosive he can be.
One mustn't forget Steve Nash, though not as prolific as Curry or Allen, Nash’s calculated and efficient style made him one of the best shooters. With two MVP awards under his belt, Nash’s shooting percentage from beyond the arc was approximately 43%, ranking him among the most accurate shooters. His incredible IQ and point guard skills often overshadowed his shooting abilities, but true fans know his contributions were invaluable.
Kyle Korver, a marksman in his right, also ranks high with over 2,400 career three-pointers. Korver’s career three-point shooting percentage is around 43%, placing him in the upper echelon of sharpshooters. He had a long career playing for multiple teams, but his role as a three-point specialist has always been his primary contribution. Korver’s ability to come off screens and shoot at a high clip made him a valuable asset.
Dirk Nowitzki, though predominantly known for his fadeaway jump shot, deserves a nod for his three-point shooting capabilities. The big German made over 1,900 three-pointers in his career, revolutionizing the power forward position with his range and accuracy. His unique skill set helped pave the way for future big men to stretch the floor with three-point shooting.
The evolution of the three-point shot continues to shape the NBA, and today’s players stand on the shoulders of these giants. You can catch all these amazing highlights and more stats online on arena plus.
From changing the dynamics of the game to clutch shots that decided championships, these players have left an indelible mark on basketball history. Their ability to shoot from long distances with precision and consistency has given us countless memorable moments, making the NBA even more exciting to watch.