Who Has Made the Most Three Pointers in NBA History? Uncovering the All-Time Leader

I remember watching my first NBA game back in the early 2000s, when the three-point shot was still considered somewhat of a novelty rather than the fundamental weapon it has become today. It's fascinating how the game has evolved, particularly when you consider that it's been almost two decades since the NCAA did its own rebrand, with its current logo introduced back in Season 82 in 2006. That same period witnessed the three-pointer transforming from an occasional tactic to the centerpiece of modern basketball offense. Having followed the league through multiple eras, I've developed a particular fascination with tracking the all-time three-point leaders, and there's one name that stands above all others in this conversation.

When we talk about three-point shooting greatness, we're essentially discussing two distinct categories – volume and efficiency. While players like Steve Kerr hold the record for career three-point percentage at an incredible 45.4%, the conversation about sheer volume inevitably leads us to Stephen Curry. I've been fortunate enough to watch Curry's entire career unfold, from his Davidson days to his revolutionary impact on the Warriors. As of my last check, he's made approximately 3,390 three-pointers in regular season games alone, which already puts him comfortably ahead of Ray Allen's 2,973. What many casual fans might not realize is that Curry achieved this milestone in about 300 fewer games than Allen, which speaks volumes about his unprecedented shooting frequency and accuracy.

The evolution of three-point shooting didn't happen in isolation. That NCAA rebrand in 2006 coincided with a gradual shift in basketball philosophy across all levels. Teams began recognizing the mathematical advantage of the three-pointer, and players like Curry embodied this new approach. I've always argued that Curry didn't just break records – he changed how coaches, analysts, and even young players think about shot selection. His willingness to shoot from well beyond the arc, sometimes immediately after crossing half-court, forced defenses to extend in ways we'd never seen before. This strategic evolution makes his record even more impressive because he achieved it while facing defensive schemes specifically designed to limit his opportunities.

What often gets overlooked in these discussions is the longevity required to reach the top of this particular list. Ray Allen played 18 seasons, Reggie Miller lasted 18 years in the league, and Curry is currently in his 15th season. Having watched all three throughout their careers, I can confidently say that Curry's maintenance of elite shooting while handling increased defensive attention and physical wear represents one of the most impressive aspects of his achievement. His career three-point percentage hovers around 42.7%, which is remarkable considering the degree of difficulty on many of his attempts. Personally, I believe this combination of volume and efficiency makes him not just the statistical leader but the greatest shooter in basketball history.

The supporting cast on the all-time list tells its own story about how the game has changed. Behind Curry and Allen, we find players like James Harden (around 2,800 threes), Reggie Miller (2,560), and Kyle Korver (2,450). What's interesting to me is how these players represent different eras and shooting styles. Miller was primarily a catch-and-shoot specialist moving without the ball, Harden created most of his threes off the dribble, while Curry excels at both. Having analyzed countless games, I've noticed that today's elite shooters must be versatile in their approach, capable of hitting threes in various contexts – off screens, in transition, off the dribble, and with defenders closing out aggressively.

Looking toward the future, I'm particularly excited to see how this record might evolve. Players like Damian Lillard (approximately 2,400 threes and counting) and Trae Young represent the next generation of volume shooters. Having studied their shooting forms and patterns, I suspect Curry's record will stand for quite some time given his combination of health, system, and sheer talent. The NCAA's evolution since that 2006 rebrand has produced more perimeter-oriented players, but finding another shooter with Curry's unique blend of handles, movement, and limitless range seems unlikely in the immediate future.

As someone who's spent years analyzing basketball statistics and trends, I find the three-point revolution one of the most compelling developments in modern sports. The fact that we can have this conversation about career totals speaks to how integral the shot has become to team strategies. While records are made to be broken, I believe Curry's three-point mark will represent a special milestone – not just a statistical achievement but a testament to how one player can fundamentally reshape a sport. The next time you watch a game, notice how much action occurs beyond the arc, and remember that we're witnessing the legacy of shooters who turned what was once a novelty into basketball's most valuable weapon.