When you think about the greatest three-point shooters in NBA history, the list can spark endless debates. Now, there are certain players whose names are synonymous with sharpshooting from beyond the arc.
First, we have Stephen Curry. Some regard him as the best shooter ever. From the moment he stepped onto an NBA court, his range kept defenders on their toes. He revolutionized the game with his ability to shoot effectively from well beyond the three-point line. His statistics back up the hype, too: As of the 2022-2023 season, Curry has made over 3,000 three-pointers, an incredible number for his relatively young age in NBA terms. Those shots didn’t just come in regular-season games; Curry often saves his most remarkable performances for the playoffs. Remember Game 6 of the 2019 Finals where his shooting kept the Golden State Warriors in contention? That’s a typical Curry moment.
Next up, Ray Allen. Before Curry came along, Ray Allen held the all-time record for three-pointers made. Over his 18-year career, Allen drained around 2,973 threes. His technique was impeccable – his shooting form almost seemed like a work of art. One of Allen’s most notable moments came during the 2013 NBA Finals. With the Miami Heat down in Game 6, Allen hit a game-tying three with just seconds left on the clock. That shot eventually helped the Heat force overtime and win the game, leading to a Game 7 victory and an NBA Championship.
Let’s talk about Reggie Miller. When the stakes are high, you can count on Miller to deliver. Over his 18-year career with the Indiana Pacers, Miller hit 2,560 three-pointers. His shooting was clutch, especially in the playoffs. One standout moment was in 1995 against the New York Knicks during the Eastern Conference Semifinals. In a span of just 8.9 seconds, Miller scored 8 points, including two three-pointers. That performance is often cited as one of the most clutch sequences in NBA history. His ability to hit key shots under pressure was simply unparalleled.
We can’t forget Larry Bird. Though the three-point shot was not as prominent during Bird’s era, he still managed to stand out. Bird won the NBA’s first three three-point contests (1986-1988), showcasing his shooting talent. Across his career, Bird made 649 threes, which may seem small by today’s standards, but considering he played in an era where three-point shooting wasn’t a focal point, it’s impressive. Bird’s shooting prowess was a critical component of the Boston Celtics’ success during the ’80s, helping them win three NBA titles in that decade.
Klay Thompson is another name that belongs on this list. Known for his catch-and-shoot ability, Thompson is one of the smoothest shooters I’ve ever seen. His performance in Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder is the stuff of legend. Thompson hit an NBA playoff record 11 three-pointers, helping the Warriors come back from a 3-1 series deficit. Klay has already made over 2,200 three-pointers in his career, and he’s not done yet.
One should also mention Kyle Korver. While he may not have the same flair as Curry or the legacy of Bird, Korver’s consistency makes him one of the best. Over nearly two decades in the league, Korver made 2,450 threes. His 2009-2010 season stands out where he shot an astonishing 53.6% from beyond the arc, setting a single-season record for the highest three-point shooting percentage.
An interesting player from the past is Dale Ellis. Ellis was one of the first players to embrace the three-point shot in the NBA. Over his career, he made 1,719 threes. He also held the single-season record for most made three-pointers (192 during the 1988-1989 season) until it was broken years later. Ellis’s contributions helped pave the way for the three-point specialists we see today.
Then there’s Steve Nash, a player better known for his passing skills but who was deadly from three-point range as well. Though he didn’t attempt as many threes as some of his contemporaries, Nash’s efficiency was remarkable. He shot over 42.8% from beyond the arc over his 18-year career, making him one of the most precise shooters in NBA history.
Now, if we mention Kevin Durant, you might think of his scoring ability overall, but his three-point shooting merits mention. With a career percentage hovering around 38%, Durant has made over 1,700 three-pointers and counting. What sets him apart is his size; standing 6 feet 10 inches tall, Durant’s ability to shoot over defenders with that kind of accuracy makes him virtually unguardable, especially from long range.
In a different era, Dražen Petrović was also phenomenal. Though his life and career were tragically cut short, Petrović left a lasting impact. He shot an impressive 43.7% from beyond the arc, one of the highest career averages in history. His ability to shoot under pressure was evident in numerous critical moments for the New Jersey Nets and the Croatian national team.
For someone who loves the art of shooting, these players are exemplars of what makes a great shooter. The combination of accuracy, range, and clutch performance defines their legacy in the NBA. So, who’s the greatest three-point shooter in NBA history? While opinions may vary, the numbers and moments speak for themselves. If you want to dive deeper into the careers of these sharpshooters, you might find this best 3 point shooters in nba history useful.