All Time 3 Pointers Made NBA: The Ultimate Ranking of Legendary Shooters

2025-10-30 01:15

When we talk about the all-time 3-pointers made in the NBA, I can't help but feel a surge of excitement. This isn't just about numbers; it's about the artistry and sheer impact of legendary shooters who've transformed the game. As someone who's spent years analyzing basketball statistics and watching countless games, I've come to appreciate how the three-point shot has evolved from a novelty to a cornerstone of modern offense. The way today's players launch from well beyond the arc would have been unthinkable a couple of decades ago, and that's what makes this ranking so fascinating to me.

I remember watching a game recently where Cruz dropped a season-high 27 points, going 9-of-12 from the field with an incredible 4-of-5 combined from the rainbow and four-point line. Now, that kind of shooting efficiency is what separates the good from the truly legendary. It's not just about volume; it's about making those shots count when it matters most. When I look at the all-time leaders like Ray Allen with his 2,973 career threes or Stephen Curry who's revolutionized the game with his deep range, I see a common thread—precision under pressure. Curry, for instance, has made over 300 threes in a single season multiple times, which is just mind-boggling when you consider the defensive attention he draws every night.

What really stands out to me is how the game has shifted. Back in the day, players like Reggie Miller were outliers, but now, every team needs a sharpshooter to compete. I've always had a soft spot for Klay Thompson, who once sank 14 threes in a single game—a record that still gives me chills. His ability to catch fire in an instant shows why he's in my personal top five, even if the raw numbers might place others higher. And let's not forget Kyle Korver, who shot a ridiculous 53.6% from deep in the 2014-15 season. That kind of consistency is what I admire most; it's not just about flashy moments but delivering night after night.

As we dive deeper into the stats, it's clear that longevity plays a huge role. Steve Nash, for example, might not have the highest total, but his career 42.8% from beyond the arc over 18 seasons is a testament to his skill. I think sometimes we get too caught up in totals and forget about efficiency. In my view, a player like Damian Lillard, with his deep threes and clutch performances, deserves more credit in these discussions. He's hit over 250 threes in multiple seasons, and his range forces defenses to adjust in ways that few others can.

Ultimately, ranking these shooters isn't just a numbers game—it's about legacy and impact. When I reflect on Cruz's performance, hitting 4-of-5 from those extended ranges, it reminds me that the future of three-point shooting is still evolving. We're seeing players push boundaries, and I wouldn't be surprised if in a few years, someone breaks Curry's records. For now, though, the legends we celebrate have set a high bar, blending skill, nerve, and innovation that keeps fans like me on the edge of our seats.