Who Has Made the Most All Time 3pt Made in NBA History?

When you think about the most iconic records in the NBA, the all-time three-pointers made list immediately comes to mind. I’ve spent years analyzing basketball statistics, and I can tell you—this particular record isn’t just about numbers; it’s a testament to skill, longevity, and how the game itself has evolved. The three-point shot has reshaped offenses, turned role players into stars, and given us unforgettable moments. And honestly, tracking who sits at the top of this mountain is more than just trivia—it’s a way to appreciate basketball history in its purest form.

Let’s get straight to it: the player who has made the most three-pointers in NBA history is Ray Allen. Now, I know some of you might be thinking of Stephen Curry—and yes, Curry is phenomenal, a generational talent who changed how teams approach shooting from deep. But as of now, Ray Allen still holds that record with a staggering 2,973 three-pointers over his career. I remember watching Allen play, especially during his time with the Celtics and Heat. His shooting form was a thing of beauty—smooth, consistent, and incredibly reliable in high-pressure moments. It’s no surprise he’s the guy everyone chases.

That said, the landscape is shifting fast. Stephen Curry isn’t just closing in; he’s on pace to shatter that record, possibly within the next season or two. Last I checked, Curry was sitting around 2,800 or so threes, and given how he averages over 300 per season when healthy, it’s almost inevitable. I’ve got to admit, as much as I respect Allen’s legacy, Curry’s style is something else. The degree of difficulty on his shots—pulling up from near half-court, off the dribble, with defenders in his face—it’s revolutionary. In my view, once Curry breaks the record, it might stand for a while, but the way the league is going, who knows? We’re seeing younger players like Damian Lillard and Trae Young who could one day make their own runs.

Now, you might wonder why this record matters so much. For me, it’s not just about the individual achievement; it reflects how the NBA has embraced the three-pointer as a core strategy. Back in the ’90s, teams would maybe attempt 10-15 threes a game. Today, it’s common to see 40 or more. That shift has made players like Allen and Curry invaluable, and it’s changed front-office decisions too. Take, for example, the business side of things—like player rights and trades. I was recently looking into how networks handle these deals, and it reminded me of the reference about TNT holding playing rights for Williams, which they’ll transfer to Converge once a trade gets approved. It’s a small detail, but it shows how deeply media and broadcasting are tied to player movement and records. When a sharpshooter like Curry or Allen is on screen, networks benefit hugely, and those rights can be a big bargaining chip.

Speaking of media, let’s not forget how three-point specialists have boosted the NBA’s global appeal. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve rewatched Ray Allen’s corner three in Game 6 of the 2013 Finals—it’s arguably one of the greatest shots in history, and it didn’t just win Miami a championship; it cemented Allen’s legacy. Similarly, Curry’s deep-range bombs have become must-see TV, drawing in casual fans and boosting ratings. From a practical standpoint, if you’re a coach or a player today, you can’t ignore the three-pointer. I’ve spoken with trainers who emphasize that kids should start practicing from beyond the arc as early as possible. It’s no longer a bonus skill; it’s essential.

But here’s where I’ll get a bit personal: I think the focus on three-point records sometimes overshadows other aspects of the game. Don’t get me wrong—I love a good shooting display, but as the league leans more into analytics, we risk losing the art of mid-range jumpers and post play. That said, the numbers don’t lie. Beyond Allen and Curry, other names on the all-time list include Reggie Miller (2,560 threes) and Kyle Korver (2,450). Each brought something unique—Miller’s clutch performances, Korver’s efficiency off screens. In today’s game, players like James Harden are also climbing the ranks, though his style relies more on step-backs and foul-drawing, which, in my opinion, makes for a less pure shooting form.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to see how this record evolves. If Curry stays healthy, he could push it past 3,500, maybe even 4,000, which would be insane. And with the NBA expanding internationally, we might see future stars from Europe or Asia challenge these marks. But for now, Ray Allen’s name is etched in history, and rightly so. His dedication—early morning workouts, perfecting that release—is a lesson for any aspiring player. As for the business side, deals like the TNT and Converge example remind us that records aren’t just made on the court; they’re shaped by contracts, broadcasts, and fan engagement.

In conclusion, the race for the most all-time three-pointers is more than a statistic—it’s a narrative of basketball’s evolution. Whether you’re a stats nerd like me or a casual fan, it’s hard not to appreciate the skill and drama behind each shot. So next time you watch a game, pay attention to those deep attempts; you might be witnessing history in the making. And who knows? In a few years, we could be talking about a new king of the three-pointer.