NBA All-Time 3-Point Leaders by Season (Through 2023-24)
This chart highlights the top NBA players in all-time three-pointers made, based on cumulative statistics through the 2023-24 season. Stephen Curry leads the ranking with 3,747 career three-pointers, followed by James Harden and Ray Allen. The list includes sharpshooters from different eras, showcasing the evolution of the three-point shot in the NBA.
Three-Point Field Goal: A shot made from beyond the NBA’s three-point arc, which is 23 feet 9 inches (22 feet in the corners) from the basket. Introduced in 1979, it has become a crucial aspect of modern basketball strategy.
The NBA has seen a dramatic evolution in three-point shooting over the past few decades. The introduction of the three-point line in 1979 changed the game, but it wasn’t until the 2000s that the shot became a dominant weapon. This ranking of all-time three-point leaders reflects this shift, with modern players occupying the top spots.
Stephen Curry, the undisputed leader with 3,747 three-pointers made, has revolutionized the way the game is played. His combination of quick release, deep range, and off-the-dribble shooting has set a new standard for perimeter players. Curry's influence extends beyond personal accolades—teams across the league have adjusted their offensive strategies to emphasize three-point shooting more than ever before.
James Harden (3,209) and Ray Allen (3,174) follow closely behind. Harden's ability to create shots from beyond the arc, often off isolation plays, has made him one of the most prolific scorers of his generation. Meanwhile, Allen, known for his textbook shooting form and clutch performances, held the all-time record before Curry surpassed him.
Other notable names include Kyle Korver (2,861), Klay Thompson (2,749), and Damian Lillard (2,607), all of whom have contributed significantly to the evolution of three-point shooting. Reggie Miller (2,560), a pioneer of the three-point era, remains a benchmark for consistency and longevity in shooting.
The presence of players like Buddy Hield (2,635) and Paul George (2,496) in the top rankings underscores how the modern NBA prioritizes outside shooting. With an increasing emphasis on spacing and perimeter play, future players will likely continue to push these numbers even higher.
This ranking not only highlights individual excellence but also serves as a testament to the strategic evolution of basketball. The three-point shot is now an essential part of the game, and its impact will continue to grow in the years to come.
Data Attribution
