Who Has Made the Most Three Pointers in NBA History and How They Did It

I remember watching Ray Allen sink that iconic corner three in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, a shot that not only saved Miami’s season but perfectly encapsulated what it means to be a clutch shooter. That moment got me thinking—who actually tops the all-time list for three-pointers made, and how did they manage to achieve such staggering numbers? As someone who’s spent years analyzing shooting mechanics and player development, I’ve always been fascinated by the blend of artistry and grind that defines the greatest shooters. The answer, of course, is Stephen Curry, who revolutionized the game with his limitless range and quick release. But it’s not just about him; the list includes legends like Ray Allen and Reggie Miller, each of whom left a unique imprint on how the three-pointer is perceived and executed.

When you look at the numbers, Curry’s dominance is almost surreal. As of now, he’s buried over 3,500 threes in regular-season play, pulling far ahead of Ray Allen, who held the previous record with 2,973. What’s crazy to me is how Curry didn’t just break records—he shattered the very idea of what was possible from beyond the arc. I’ve studied his footwork and release timing, and it’s clear that his success stems from an almost obsessive focus on repetition. Growing up, he’d take hundreds of shots daily, often from well beyond the college three-point line, which his critics initially called a bad habit. Turns out, those "bad habits" were just ahead of their time. His ability to shoot off the dribble, coming off screens, or in transition forces defenses to stretch to unimaginable limits, and honestly, it’s made the game more exciting to watch.

Ray Allen, who held the crown before Curry, was a master of precision and discipline. I’ve always admired his textbook form—elbow in, follow-through steady—and his relentless work ethic. Allen famously followed rigid shooting routines, sometimes arriving hours before games to practice the same shots he’d take later that night. His mental toughness was just as critical; he never seemed rattled, whether in the playoffs or during a random Tuesday in February. And let’s not forget Reggie Miller, the original three-point assassin. Miller used his slender frame and cunning movement to lose defenders, often relying on sharp cuts and a quick trigger. What stands out to me about Reggie is his flair for the dramatic—he thrived in high-pressure moments, and his rivalry with the Knicks produced some of the most iconic shooting displays in NBA history.

But here’s what a lot of people miss: shooting isn’t just about technique; it’s about context and comfort. I was reminded of this when I came across a quote from a coach talking about a player’s growth: "Sobrang saya ko para sa kanya kasi komportable siya sa nilipatan niya," which translates to "I’m so happy for him because he’s comfortable where he moved." That idea—comfort in one’s environment—resonates deeply with me when analyzing shooters. Think about Kyle Korver, who isn’t at the very top of the list but deserves mention for his efficiency. Korver flourished in systems that emphasized ball movement, like in Atlanta, where he was surrounded by unselfish playmakers. When shooters find a role and system that suits them, their confidence soars, and the numbers follow. It’s why I believe team fit and coaching philosophy are as important as raw talent.

The evolution of the three-pointer has been staggering. When I first started following the NBA in the late ’90s, the three was often a secondary option—a weapon for specialists. Now, it’s the engine of modern offenses. Analytics have pushed teams to prioritize efficiency, and players like Curry and Damian Lillard have normalized pulling up from 30 feet. I love this shift because it rewards skill and creativity, but I’ll admit, part of me misses the mid-range game that legends like Michael Jordan perfected. Still, there’s no denying the impact: the three-pointer has opened up the floor, creating space for drives and ball movement that make today’s game faster and more dynamic.

So, how did these shooters do it? In my view, it boils down to three things: relentless practice, adaptability, and a touch of fearless audacity. Curry’s workouts are legendary—he’ll mix in off-balance heaves and game-speed drills until the shot becomes second nature. Allen and Miller, though from different eras, shared a commitment to conditioning and film study, allowing them to exploit defensive weaknesses. And let’s not overlook the mental side; shooting under pressure requires a short memory and unwavering self-belief. I’ve seen young players crumble when their shot isn’t falling, but the greats like Curry and Allen never let a miss shake their confidence. They trust their process, and that’s something I always emphasize when coaching aspiring shooters.

In the end, the list of all-time three-point leaders is more than a tally of makes—it’s a chronicle of basketball’s evolution. Stephen Curry may sit at the summit, but each player in the top ten contributed to how we understand shooting today. As the game continues to change, I wouldn’t be surprised to see new names climb the ranks, perhaps even challenging Curry’s eventual total. Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure: the three-pointer will remain a symbol of innovation, hard work, and those magical moments when preparation meets opportunity. And as a fan and analyst, I can’t wait to see what’s next.