Shooting is the most essential skill in modern basketball, and some players have turned it into pure art. From long-range bombs to mid-range precision, these legends changed how the game is played. Here’s our ranking of the five best shooters in NBA history.
5. Larry Bird
Team(s): Boston Celtics
Career 3P%: 37.6% (in a low-volume era)
Larry Bird didn’t shoot as many threes as today’s stars, but he didn’t need to. His confidence, range, and ability to hit clutch shots make him one of the most feared marksmen ever. In any era, Bird would dominate with his jumper.
4. Klay Thompson
Team(s): Golden State Warriors, Dallas Maverick
Career 3P%: 41.3%
Career 3PM: 2,697+
Klay Thompson might be the smoothest shooter ever. He once scored 60 points on just 11 dribbles. When he heats up, there’s no one more dangerous. His 37-point quarter remains one of the most jaw-dropping displays in NBA history.
3. Reggie Miller
Team(s): Indiana Pacers
Career 3P%: 39.5%
Career 3PM: 2,560
A cold-blooded shooter with a flair for drama, Reggie Miller thrived under pressure. His epic 8 points in 9 seconds against the Knicks is legendary. Miller made defenders pay for every inch of space they gave him.
2. Ray Allen
Team(s): Bucks, Sonics, Celtics, Heat
Career 3P%: 40.0%
Career 3PM: 2,973
Before Curry broke his record, Ray Allen was the undisputed king of the three-ball. Known for his quick release and perfect form, Allen hit one of the most clutch threes in NBA history in the 2013 Finals for the Miami Heat.
1. Stephen Curry
Team(s): Golden State Warriors
Career 3P%: 42.3%
Career 3PM: 4058+ (and counting)
Stephen Curry isn’t just the best shooter of all time, completely changed the sport. With unlimited range and unmatched off-the-dribble accuracy, Curry made the three-pointer a primary weapon. He holds the record for most threes in NBA history and isn’t done yet.
Honorable Mentions: Kyle Korver, Steve Nash, Kevin Durant, Dirk Nowitzki.
Who’s your GOAT shooter? Let us know in the comments!
