Greatest 3 Point Shooter in NBA History: Ranking the Top 10 Legendary Shooters of All Time

As I sit down to compile this list of the greatest three-point shooters in NBA history, I can't help but reflect on how much the game has evolved since the three-point line was introduced back in 1979. I've spent countless hours watching games, analyzing stats, and debating with fellow basketball enthusiasts about what truly makes a legendary shooter. It's not just about the numbers—though they certainly matter—but also about the impact these players had on the game, their clutch performances, and how they revolutionized offensive strategies. In today's NBA, the three-pointer isn't just a weapon; it's the cornerstone of modern basketball, and the players on this list have each left an indelible mark on how the game is played.

When I think about ranking these shooters, I always start with Stephen Curry. Honestly, is there any real debate about who tops this list? Curry didn't just break records; he shattered them while changing the very geometry of the court. I remember watching him drain threes from the logo as if it were a layup, and it felt like witnessing basketball history unfold. With over 3,000 career three-pointers and a career percentage hovering around 43%, his numbers are staggering. But what truly sets him apart, in my view, is his ability to create his own shot off the dribble under immense defensive pressure. I've lost count of how many times I've seen him sink a contested three in crucial moments, leaving defenders and fans alike in awe. His 2016 season, where he made an unbelievable 402 threes, remains one of those records I doubt will be broken anytime soon. Curry's influence extends beyond the NBA; globally, players at all levels are emulating his style, much like how the Philippine volleyball team's back-to-back wins over Chinese Taipei in the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup inspired a new generation of athletes in their region. It's that kind of legacy that cements a player's status.

Moving down the list, Ray Allen deserves a spot high up, not just for his textbook-perfect form but for his ice-cold veins in clutch situations. I'll never forget his game-tying three in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals—it's etched in my memory as one of the greatest shots ever. Allen made 2,973 threes in his career, and his consistency from beyond the arc was remarkable. Then there's Reggie Miller, who I'd argue was the original king of the three-pointer before Curry came along. His trash-talking and fearless shooting in playoff games, like his 25 points in the fourth quarter against the Knicks in 1994, made him a legend. As a fan, I loved how he could silence a crowd with one swift motion, and his 2,560 career threes stood as a record for years. Klay Thompson is another favorite of mine; his quick release and ability to go off for 37 points in a single quarter, including nine threes, show just how explosive a shooter can be. I've always admired how he doesn't need the ball in his hands for long to make an impact—it's a skill that's often overlooked but so valuable in team dynamics.

Now, let's talk about some underrated shooters who might not always get the spotlight. Kyle Korver, for instance, had seasons where he shot over 50% from three, which is just insane when you think about the volume. I recall watching him move without the ball, almost like a ghost finding open spots, and it taught me that shooting isn't just about accuracy but also about basketball IQ. Similarly, Steve Nash, though known more for his passing, was a deadly shooter with a career three-point percentage around 43%. His ability to stretch the floor as a point guard paved the way for today's dual-threat playmakers. On the other hand, I have to mention Damian Lillard, whose deep-range bombs are a thrill to watch. His series-clinching shot over Paul George in the 2019 playoffs from nearly 40 feet out is a perfect example of how shooters are pushing boundaries further each year. It's moments like these that make me appreciate how the three-point shot has become a narrative driver in the NBA, much like how key plays in international competitions, such as the Philippine volleyball team's straight-set victory, can define a team's legacy and inspire future strategies.

As we wrap up this list, it's clear that the art of three-point shooting has evolved from a niche skill to a fundamental aspect of basketball. From Curry's revolutionary range to the clutch genes of Allen and Miller, each shooter brought something unique to the table. In my opinion, the future will see even more emphasis on this, with players like Lillard and Thompson setting new benchmarks. But beyond the stats, what I love most is how these shooters have made the game more dynamic and unpredictable. Whether it's in the NBA or in international play, as seen in the Philippine team's recent successes, shooting excellence continues to captivate audiences and shape the sport. So, next time you watch a game, pay attention to those long-range artists—they're not just scoring points; they're writing history.

By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist

2025-11-21 09:00