When you think about the greatest 3-point shooter in NBA history, Steph Curry's name immediately springs to mind. He has revolutionized the game with his incredible range and consistency. Over his career, Steph has made over 3,000 three-pointers, an all-time record that keeps climbing. Not only does he shoot with unmatched precision, but he does so at an impressive efficiency rate of over 40% from beyond the arc. Steph’s ability to pull up from virtually anywhere on the court has made him a defensive nightmare for opponents. And let's not forget, he holds the record for the most 3-pointers made in a single season, hitting 402 in the 2015-2016 season.
Ray Allen is another name that often comes up in this discussion. Known as one of the purest shooters in the game, Allen made 2,973 three-pointers during his illustrious career. He was a vital part of the 2008 Boston Celtics championship team and later hit one of the most iconic shots in NBA history during Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, helping the Miami Heat stave off defeat. Allen’s career 3-point percentage stands at around 40%, demonstrating his consistent excellence from beyond the arc. His legendary form and quick release are what made him stand out for nearly two decades.
Reggie Miller deserves a mention as well. Playing his entire career with the Indiana Pacers, Miller was a lethal shooter, especially in clutch moments. He retired with 2,560 made three-pointers and was a 39.5% shooter from distance. Perhaps what distinguishes Miller is his flair for stepping up in the playoffs. One can't forget the "8 points in 9 seconds" heroics against the New York Knicks in 1995. His influence extends beyond his shooting as he captivated audiences with his fierce competitiveness and uncanny ability to hit shots when they mattered most.
Then there’s Klay Thompson, Steph Curry’s backcourt partner in Golden State. Thompson once scored 37 points in a single quarter, an NBA record, doing most of his damage from behind the 3-point line. With a career 3-point shooting percentage of over 41%, Thompson is known for his smooth shooting stroke and quick release. His ability to catch fire at any moment makes him one of the most dangerous shooters the game has ever seen. Many recall his performance in Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals, where he hit 11 threes to save the Warriors' season.
James Harden, the former MVP and current Philadelphia 76ers star, has also built a reputation as one of the league’s top shooters. Harden is known for his step-back 3-pointer, a move that has become his signature. With over 2,600 made 3-pointers and counting, Harden’s offensive repertoire is as dynamic as it gets. His career 3-point percentage may hover around 36%, but his volume and the difficulty of the shots he takes add to his case. Harden is often double-teamed, yet he still finds a way to get his shot off, which speaks to his skill level.
Another player that can't be overlooked is Dirk Nowitzki. Although primarily a power forward, Nowitzki transformed what was expected from players at his position with his shooting ability. He retired with over 1,900 made 3-pointers at a career percentage of roughly 38%. Dirk’s one-legged fadeaway has become iconic, influencing countless players who came after him. His performance in the 2011 NBA Finals, where he led the Dallas Mavericks to their first-ever championship, is a testament to his clutch credentials and shooting prowess.
Kevin Durant, although not primarily a 3-point shooter, has shown throughout his career that he can knock down shots from anywhere on the court. Durant has over 1,600 made three-pointers and a shooting percentage of around 38%. Standing at nearly 7 feet tall with a wingspan that allows him to shoot over almost any defender, Durant has proven that he can score with ease from beyond the arc. His performance in the 2017 and 2018 NBA Finals, where he hit numerous clutch 3-pointers against the Cleveland Cavaliers, bolsters his case as one of the best shooters in the game.
A player who often flies under the radar in this discussion is Kyle Korver. Known exclusively for his shooting, Korver’s career 3-point percentage is an astounding 43%, one of the highest in NBA history. Throughout his career, Korver has made over 2,400 three-pointers, and his ability to come off screens and catch-and-shoot with precision makes him one of the league’s best marksmen. His season with the Atlanta Hawks in 2014-2015, where he shot over 49% from three, is one of the best shooting seasons ever recorded.
Let’s not forget about Larry Bird, the Boston Celtics legend. Bird made 649 three-pointers in an era where the 3-point shot was not as prevalent as it is today. However, his shooting form and ability to hit clutch shots have cemented his place in history. Bird was a career 37.6% shooter from three, and he won the first three NBA 3-Point Contests in the mid-1980s. His confidence and flair, often raising a finger in triumph before the shot even went in, underscore why he's considered one of the greats.
Close the discussion by mentioning some of the newer talents that could one day join this elite group. Players like Damian Lillard, with his clutch gene and deep-range shooting, already have over 2,000 made three-pointers and show no signs of slowing down. Trae Young is another young star making waves, known for his deep 3-point shooting and averaging over 35% from beyond the arc early in his career. These younger players are extending the legacy of great three-point shooters and constantly pushing the boundaries of what seems possible on the basketball court.
This ongoing quest for the greatest shooter will continue to evolve as more players embrace the 3-point shot, and records are continually challenged and broken. Whether it's Curry, Allen, Miller, or any emerging star, the league’s fascination with the deep shot ensures that this debate will remain vibrant for years to come. For those who want to delve deeper into the stats and moments that define these legendary shooters, you can explore more at greatest 3 point shooter in nba history.