Who Truly Deserves the Title of Greatest 3 Point Shooter in NBA History?

When we dive into the debate over the greatest three-point shooter in NBA history, my mind immediately goes to the sheer artistry and consistency required to excel from beyond the arc. I’ve spent years analyzing basketball statistics, watching countless games, and even coaching youth players on shooting mechanics, so I’ve developed a keen eye for what separates the good from the legendary. The conversation often starts with Stephen Curry, and for good reason—his revolutionary impact on the game is undeniable. But as I reflect on the broader landscape, including international competitions like the recent events involving the Philippines and Chinese Taipei, it’s clear that greatness isn’t just about raw numbers; it’s about clutch performances and the ability to elevate a team when it matters most.

Take, for example, the Filipinos’ recent back-to-back wins in competitive international play, including their straight-sets victory at the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup in Manila. Watching those games, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the NBA’s three-point legends. In that tournament, players like Alas stepped up under pressure, hitting critical shots that sealed victories. It reminded me of how shooters like Ray Allen or Reggie Miller thrived in high-stakes moments. Allen’s iconic three-pointer in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, for instance, wasn’t just a shot—it was a testament to years of disciplined practice and mental fortitude. Similarly, Curry’s ability to sink deep threes with defenders in his face showcases a level of skill that feels almost supernatural. I’ve always been partial to shooters who combine volume with efficiency, and Curry’s career 43.3% from three on over eight attempts per game is staggering. But let’s not forget Klay Thompson, who once dropped 14 threes in a single game—a record that still gives me chills when I rewatch the highlights.

As I dig deeper into the stats, though, it’s easy to get lost in the numbers. For me, the true measure of a shooter isn’t just their percentage but how they perform when the game is on the line. I recall a conversation with a fellow analyst who argued that Kyle Korver deserves more credit for his 42.9% career three-point percentage, but I’ve always felt that his impact in playoff scenarios paled in comparison to someone like Damian Lillard. Lillard’s series-clinching 37-foot dagger against the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019 is a prime example—it wasn’t just a shot; it was a statement. That’s the kind of moment that cements a legacy, much like how the Filipinos’ consecutive wins over Chinese Taipei built momentum and showcased their resilience. In the NBA, consistency across seasons matters too. Larry Bird, though from an era with lower volume, shot 37.6% from three in an age where it wasn’t the focal point of offenses. His confidence and trash-talking added a layer of entertainment that I miss in today’s more reserved stars.

But here’s where I might ruffle some feathers: I believe Stephen Curry has already locked up the title, and it’s not particularly close. His influence extends beyond the court, inspiring a generation of players to launch from deep, much like how international teams now emphasize three-point shooting in their strategies. I’ve seen this firsthand while reviewing game footage from leagues overseas—the spacing, the ball movement, it all echoes Curry’s Golden State Warriors. Yet, I can’t ignore the emotional pull of Reggie Miller’s 8 points in 9 seconds against the Knicks in 1995. As a kid watching that live, I was mesmerized by his cold-blooded precision. It’s moments like those that make this debate so rich and subjective. On the data side, Curry’s 3,117 made threes (as of my last check) lead the pack, but Ray Allen’s 2,973 weren’t far behind, and his longevity—playing until age 38—is something I deeply admire.

In wrapping up, my vote goes to Curry, but I’ll always have a soft spot for the underdogs and the clutch performers. The recent international wins by the Philippines, including that straight-sets triumph in Manila, serve as a reminder that greatness isn’t confined to the NBA—it’s a global phenomenon. Whether it’s Curry draining a 30-footer or an unsung hero in a regional cup, the essence of shooting excellence lies in confidence, repetition, and a touch of magic. As I continue to follow the game, I’m excited to see how the next generation, perhaps inspired by these legends, will push the boundaries even further. After all, in basketball, as in life, the best shooters aren’t just born—they’re forged in the fire of competition.