The 2024/25 National Basketball Association (NBA) season is fast approaching, and teams are busy bolstering their rosters and fine-tuning their strategies in preparation for another thrilling year of basketball. As the excitement builds, one aspect of the game that always captures the imagination of fans is the three-point shot.
This long-range weapon has revolutionized the game, with players continuously pushing the boundaries of what was once considered possible. Among the elite shooters in NBA history, two names stand out: Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry. These sharpshooters have set records that highlight their prowess from beyond the arc and have cemented their legacies as two of the greatest shooters in the league's history.
Klay Thompson, now a member of the Dallas Mavericks, holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single game in NBA history. Thompson's historic performance came on October 29, 2018, when he drained 14 three-pointers in a game against the Chicago Bulls.
3 YEARS AGO TODAY
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) October 29, 2021
Klay Thompson knocked down an NBA record 14 THREES IN JUST 26 MINUTES 🔥🔥🔥
He checked out at the 4:53 mark of the 3rd quarter with 52 PTS.
pic.twitter.com/OPzIWPG54e
Thompson's shooting display was nothing short of spectacular, as he scored 52 points in just 27 minutes of play, leading the Golden State Warriors to a commanding 149-124 victory. This achievement broke the previous record held by his former teammate, Stephen Curry.
Thompson's performance was not just about the numbers; it was a masterclass in shooting mechanics, off-ball movement, and quick releases. His ability to find open spaces, set his feet, and fire away with remarkable accuracy left fans and opponents in awe.
Klay's 14 three-pointers were a testament to his confidence and his role within the Warriors' offensive system, which thrives on unselfish play and spacing the floor. Thompson’s record-setting game remains a highlight in NBA history, showcasing how the evolution of the three-point shot has changed the game.
Before Klay Thompson set the record, it was Stephen Curry who had the most three-pointers in a single game with 13, a feat he accomplished on November 7, 2016, against the New Orleans Pelicans. Curry scored 46 points in that game, leading the Warriors to a 116-106 win.
Known as the greatest shooter in NBA history, Curry's influence on the game extends beyond his records. He has redefined the way basketball is played, with teams now placing a greater emphasis on three-point shooting.
Curry's ability to shoot from virtually anywhere on the court has forced defenses to extend far beyond the three-point line, creating space for his teammates to operate. His quick release, dribbling skills, and range make him a constant threat, whether he is pulling up from 30 feet or draining catch-and-shoot threes off screens.
As the all-time leader in three-pointers made in NBA history with 3,747, Curry holds the record for making 10 or more three-pointers in the most games, achieving this feat an astonishing 25 times. His impact on the game is immeasurable, as he has inspired a new generation of players to develop their three-point shooting skills.
In addition to Thompson and Curry, two other players have matched Curry's record of 13 three-pointers in a game: Damian Lillard and Zach LaVine. Lillard, known for his clutch shooting and deep range, tied the record on February 26, 2023, when he scored 71 points against the Houston Rockets. Lillard's performance was not just about volume; it was also about timing, as he made big shots in crucial moments to lead his team to victory.
Zach LaVine, known for his athleticism and scoring ability, also reached 13 three-pointers in a game on November 23, 2019, when he scored 49 points against the Charlotte Hornets. LaVine’s performance was a blend of hot shooting and tenacity, as he led the Bulls to a dramatic comeback win.
Breakdown of the Top Performances:
The rise of the three-point shot has transformed the NBA into a perimeter-oriented league, where spacing and shooting are more critical than ever. The influence of players like Curry and Thompson has led teams to prioritize shooting in their roster construction and game plans. As a result, the three-point shot is no longer just a situational weapon; it is a foundational aspect of modern basketball strategy.
Stephen Curry's record of making 10 or more three-pointers in a game 25 times underscores his unparalleled consistency and skill. Following Curry, Thompson has achieved this feat nine times, while Lillard has done so five times. The ability to make multiple three-pointers in a game at such a high frequency is a reflection of the hard work, practice, and dedication these players put into perfecting their craft.
Beyond the records and statistics, the impact of players like Thompson and Curry extends to how young players approach the game. High school and college players now emulate their shooting techniques, understanding that a strong perimeter game can be a significant advantage. The three-point revolution has also influenced coaching strategies, with teams incorporating more plays designed to generate open three-point looks.
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