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Who Are the Best 3 Point Shooters of All Time? Full Ranking
The 3-point shot is the lifeblood of modern basketball. It’s not just a weapon; it’s become the centerpiece of many offenses. Whether it’s a quick release, range, or the ability to deliver in clutch moments, these players have left a mark on the game. When we talk about the best 3-point shooters of all time, we’re talking about the guys who can hit from anywhere on the court.
If you’re wondering who leads the charge in NBA history, here’s a breakdown of the best of the best—the greatest 3-point shooters of all time. Let’s get into it.
Ranking the Greatest 3-Point Shooters in NBA History
1. Steph Curry
It’s impossible to talk about the best 3 point shooter in NBA history without mentioning Steph Curry. With over 4,000 career 3-pointers, Curry has completely redefined what it means to be a shooter in the NBA. He can hit shots in transition, off the dribble, or with defenders in his face, making him the most dangerous offensive player from beyond the arc.
Adding to that, Curry’s best offensive ratings in NBA history aren’t just a result of his shooting; his ability to stretch the floor has forced entire teams to rethink their defensive strategies. Love or hate him, he’s the last player you want to leave alone on the perimeter.
2. James Harden
When you think of James Harden, you think of the step-back 3-pointer. It’s one of the most iconic moves in basketball, and with over 3,175 career 3-pointers and counting, Harden has mastered it. His ability to create his own shot from deep, even with defenders on him, places him among the best 3 pt shooters of all time.
While Harden is known for his offensive skill set, his ability to consistently knock down triples has also helped him climb the all-time NBA scoring leaders list, where he now sits 11th. It’s not just the volume of 3-pointers he makes; it’s how many of them are in high-pressure moments that make him so dangerous.
3. Ray Allen
While some of the best international NBA players of all time have made their names as sharpshooters, no one outshines Ray Allen when it comes to filling the long-range shot. With a career 2,973 three-pointers, Allen’s consistency from deep was unmatched, and his ability to hit clutch shots in key moments made him one of the best three-point shooters of all time.
Allen’s leadership and clutch moments cemented his legacy as one of the most efficient shooters ever to play the game, and his ability to come through in big moments made him a massive threat from deep. His 2008 Finals performance and buzzer-beater in the 2013 Finals only helped solidify his place as one of the greatest 3-point shooters of all time.
4. Reggie Miller
You didn’t always hear Reggie Miller coming, but you felt his presence when it counted. Known for his clutch shots and the ability to deliver in the postseason, Miller finished his career with 2,560 3-pointers.
As one of the most underrated NBA players of all time, Miller wasn’t always recognized for his defense or leadership, but his shooting made him a constant threat. He made his mark by knocking down triples in clutch moments, proving he could turn the game around with a single shot.
5. Damian Lillard
Few players can match the range and consistency that Damian Lillard brings to the table. With 2,804 career 3-pointers, he’s firmly in the conversation of the best 3-point shooters of all time. Lillard isn’t just a regular-season shooter, though—he’s known for his clutch moments, knocking down deep shots when his team needs it the most.
Let’s not forget that while Lillard can drain the triple, he’s just as dangerous at the charity stripe, ranking as one of the best free-throw shooters of all time. His deadly combination of long-range shooting and reliable free-throw percentage has made him a force to be reckoned with for his entire career.
6. Klay Thompson
Klay Thompson is a player whose game revolves entirely around his shooting. He doesn’t need to dribble or create his own shot—just get him an open look and he’ll knock it down. With over 2,697 career 3-pointers, Thompson has cemented himself as one of the best 3-point shooters of all time. His ability to come off screens and hit shots with consistency has made him one of the most lethal shooters the game has ever seen.
Along with his deadly shooting, Thompson also made his presence known as one of the best defensive shooting guards in the NBA, playing an integral role on both ends of the floor.
Hands down, Steph Curry stands as the best 3 point shooter in NBA history, drilling with over 4,000 career triples made and counting. As for the best 3-point percentage in NBA history, that’s currently held by Steve Kerr. However, Curry’s efficiency is still top-tier for players with such high volume. With his career total climbing steadily, Curry has firmly set the standard, and there’s no doubt he’s changed how teams approach shooting the 3-ball.
