Is Steph Curry the Best Shooter Ever? A Quick Dive into the NBA's Greatest Marksman

Stephen Curry has revolutionized the game of basketball with his unparalleled shooting ability. The question remains: Is Steph Curry the best shooter in NBA history? This article will explore his career, record-breaking stats, and transformative impact on the game.

Steph Curry’s Record-Breaking Stats

Curry's shooting stats are staggering. As of August 2024, he has made 3,390 three-pointers, the most in NBA history. He surpassed Ray Allen’s previous record of 2,973, achieving this in 511 fewer games. His career three-point percentage stands at 42.8%—an incredible feat given his high volume of attempts (over 7,900).

Curry’s shooting ability also played a crucial role in his two MVP awards (2015, 2016), with the latter being the first unanimous MVP in NBA history. His shooting efficiency—50.4% from the field, 45.4% from three, and 90.8% from the free-throw line—earned him a place in the exclusive 50-40-90 club during his unanimous MVP season.

Clutch Performances and Game-Winning Shots

Curry is known for delivering in the clutch. A prime example is his 37-foot game-winning three-pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 27, 2016. This shot epitomized Curry’s extraordinary range and confidence.

In the playoffs, Curry has also proven his mettle, making 618 playoff three-pointers, the most in NBA history. His ability to perform under pressure further cements his status as one of the greatest shooters ever.

Impact on the Game

Curry's influence extends beyond stats. He has revolutionized the NBA, leading to the "three-point revolution." Teams now average over 35 three-point attempts per game, a significant increase from the 18 attempts per game before Curry's rise. His style has inspired players at all levels, from youth leagues to the NBA, to prioritize shooting and spacing.

Comparisons with Other Great Shooters

To crown Curry as the best shooter ever, we must compare him to legends like Ray Allen, Reggie Miller, Larry Bird, and Steve Nash. Each was an elite shooter, but none combined volume, efficiency, and impact like Curry.

Ray Allen made 2,973 three-pointers with a career 40.0% shooting percentage. While Allen’s contributions are significant, Curry's higher volume and efficiency surpass him. Reggie Miller, known for clutch shooting, made 2,560 three-pointers at a 39.5% rate. Larry Bird, while a phenomenal shooter, attempted only 1.9 three-pointers per game in an era where the shot was less emphasized. Steve Nash's 42.8% three-point percentage matches Curry’s, but Nash attempted fewer than 3,000 shots.

Curry's combination of volume, accuracy, and game-changing impact sets him apart from these legends.

All-Around Game and Legacy

Curry is more than just a shooter. He is an elite ball-handler, passer, and off-ball mover. His career average of 6.5 assists per game shows his ability to create opportunities for teammates. Defensively, Curry has improved over the years, using his quickness and basketball IQ to contribute on that end.

Curry’s legacy is secure as the greatest shooter ever. He has redefined the game, influencing how teams draft, train, and play. His "death lineup" with the Warriors—a small-ball lineup prioritizing speed and shooting—became a model for teams around the league.

As Curry continues to play at an elite level, his impact will only grow. His influence on the game will be felt for generations, and his place as the greatest shooter in NBA history is solidified.

Conclusion

So, is Steph Curry the best shooter ever? The answer is a resounding yes. His combination of volume, efficiency, and impact on the game is unparalleled. Curry has set a new standard for shooting and has fundamentally changed the way basketball is played. As he continues to break records and inspire future generations, his legacy as the greatest shooter the game has ever seen will remain unchallenged.