Looking back at the evolution of basketball, I've always been fascinated by how the three-point shot transformed from a novelty to the game's primary weapon. When I first started covering the NBA professionally, the three-pointer was still considered somewhat of a gamble—teams would use it sparingly, often as a last resort. Fast forward to today, and it's become the cornerstone of modern offensive strategies. The current landscape of three-point shooting isn't just about volume; it's about efficiency, creativity, and rewriting the record books in ways we never imagined possible.
Stephen Curry continues to dominate this conversation, and honestly, I don't see that changing anytime soon. His career total of over 3,500 three-pointers isn't just impressive—it's almost mythical when you consider he's achieved this in significantly fewer games than previous record holders. What truly stands out to me is his 2021 season where he knocked down 337 threes at a 42.1% clip while facing constant defensive pressure. I've watched countless players attempt difficult shots, but Curry's ability to convert from 30 feet with defenders in his face still leaves me shaking my head in disbelief. His record of 402 threes in a single season back in 2016 feels like one of those marks that might stand for decades, especially given how defenses have adapted specifically to stop him.
Then there's James Harden, whose approach to three-point shooting couldn't be more different from Curry's if he tried. Harden's step-back three has become such a weapon that I've noticed entire defensive schemes built around trying to contain it. His 2019 season where he made 378 threes while attempting over 1,000 of them showcases a volume shooting philosophy that's both brutal and effective. While some critics argue about his efficiency, I've always appreciated how Harden's willingness to take difficult, contested threes has forced defenses to extend beyond their comfort zones, creating driving lanes and opportunities for his teammates.
The emergence of Damian Lillard as a legitimate threat from what I call "the parking lot range" has been particularly thrilling to witness. His series-clinching shot against Oklahoma City from 37 feet wasn't just a highlight—it was a statement about how the very definition of a "good shot" has evolved. Lillard's 2020 bubble performance, where he made 54 threes across 8 games while shooting 41.7% from deep, demonstrated that these super-long range attempts aren't just desperation heaves but calculated weapons in elite shooters' arsenals.
What's particularly interesting to me is how the three-point revolution has expanded beyond just guards. Watching big men like Karl-Anthony Towns develop consistent three-point range has fundamentally changed how teams construct their rosters. Towns' 2019 season where he shot 41.2% on 4.6 attempts per game while being a dominant interior presence represents the new archetype of the modern big man. I remember talking with scouts five years ago who would dismiss big men shooting threes as a gimmick—now it's practically a requirement for the position.
The international influence on three-point shooting can't be overstated either. Luka Dončić's step-back three, which he developed in Europe, has become one of the league's most unstoppable moves. His 2022 playoff performance where he made 39 threes in 13 games while creating most of them off the dribble showcases how global basketball philosophies have merged to push the boundaries of shooting. Having covered international basketball for years, I've noticed how different development paths create unique shooting profiles that enrich the NBA's three-point landscape.
Reflecting on the reference point about setting things up better for next time, I can't help but think about how teams are constantly refining their approach to three-point shooting. The evolution isn't just about players taking more threes—it's about smarter shot selection, better spacing, and developing shooters who can create their own opportunities rather than just spotting up. The most successful teams I've observed understand that three-point shooting isn't about volume alone but about integrating it within a broader offensive system that creates high-quality looks.
As we look toward the future, I'm particularly excited about players like Trae Young who are pushing the boundaries of what's considered acceptable range. His confidence in pulling up from the logo has forced defenses to reconsider their entire approach to pick-and-roll coverage. While traditionalists might cringe at some of these attempts, I've come to appreciate how they stretch defenses to their breaking point, creating offensive opportunities that simply didn't exist a decade ago.
The record books will continue to be rewritten, but what fascinates me most isn't the numbers themselves but how they're achieved. The artistry of Curry's release, the brute force of Harden's step-back, the audacity of Lillard's deep threes—these aren't just statistical achievements but expressions of individual brilliance that have collectively transformed how basketball is played. Having watched this evolution unfold, I'm convinced we're still in the early stages of understanding how far three-point shooting can push the boundaries of the game. The next generation of shooters will undoubtedly build upon these foundations, and frankly, I can't wait to see what new records and shooting innovations emerge in the coming years.
