Is Stephen Curry the Greatest Shooter in NBA History

When discussing the greatest shooters in NBA history, one name consistently dominates the conversation: Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors superstar has shattered records, redefined how the game is played, and set new benchmarks for shooting excellence. But does that make him the greatest shooter of all time?

Let’s analyze Curry’s career, the arguments for and against his claim to this title, and how his legacy stacks up against other sharpshooters in NBA history.

The Case for Curry as the Greatest Shooter

Stephen Curry’s shooting prowess is unparalleled in modern basketball. His combination of skill, range, efficiency, and versatility has elevated him to legendary status.

Unmatched Records

• All-Time Three-Point Leader: In 2021, Curry surpassed Ray Allen to become the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made, despite playing significantly fewer games than Allen.
• Single-Season Records: Curry holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single season (402 in 2015-16). No other player has broken the 400 mark.
• Playoff Dominance: Curry has the most career three-pointers in the playoffs, proving his shooting translates under pressure.

Revolutionary Range

Curry has consistently hit shots from well beyond the traditional three-point line, forcing defenders to guard him as soon as he crosses halfcourt. His ability to score from 30+ feet has redefined offensive spacing in the NBA.

Efficiency Under Pressure

Shooting efficiently at high volume is rare, but Curry has made it look effortless. His career three-point percentage hovers around 43%, despite attempting more contested shots and deep threes than any player in history.

Impact on the Game

Perhaps Curry’s greatest legacy is how he’s transformed basketball. He’s inspired a generation of players to focus on shooting and has led the NBA into a new era dominated by three-point play.

“Curry didn’t just break records—he broke the game,” said an NBA analyst.

The Case Against Curry

While Curry’s resume is overwhelmingly in his favor, some argue that calling him the greatest shooter of all time overlooks other legendary sharpshooters.

Different Eras, Different Contexts

Players like Ray Allen, Reggie Miller, and Larry Bird thrived in eras where the three-point shot wasn’t as central to the game. They faced defenses designed to stop postplay and mid-range scoring, making their long-range shooting all the more impressive.

• Ray Allen: Known for his clutch shooting, Allen had a smooth, textbook stroke and delivered in critical moments, including the iconic Game 6 three-pointer in the 2013 NBA Finals.
• Reggie Miller: The face of three-point shooting in the 1990s, Miller excelled under intense defensive pressure, particularly in playoff scenarios.

Specialization vs. Versatility

Critics argue that Curry’s shooting benefits from the modern NBA’s focus on spacing and three-point play. In contrast, players from earlier eras had to balance shooting with other aspects of the game.

Volume vs. Accuracy

While Curry’s volume is unmatched, players like Steve Kerr (45.4% career three-point shooting) and Kyle Korver (42.9%) boast higher percentages with fewer attempts.

What Sets Curry Apart

Curry’s greatest argument lies not just in his shooting stats but in the way he achieves them.

• Off-the-Dribble Shooting: Unlike traditional sharpshooters who rely on catch-and-shoot opportunities, Curry excels at creating his own shot. His handles allow him to break down defenders and pull up for threes in a split second.
• Consistency in Big Moments: Curry’s ability to maintain efficiency during high-pressure games, including the playoffs, cements his reputation as a clutch shooter.
• Range and Creativity: Curry’s shooting arsenal includes deep threes, floaters, stepbacks, and off-balance shots, showcasing his versatility.

Curry vs. the Legends

Comparing Curry to the legends of the game is like comparing apples to oranges, given the evolution of basketball.

• Ray Allen: The prototypical catch-and-shoot player, Allen’s longevity and clutch moments make him a strong contender. However, he didn’t have the off-the-dribble shooting ability that defines Curry.
• Reggie Miller: Known for his ability to rise to the occasion, Miller lacked Curry’s range and versatility but excelled in high-stakes situations.
• Larry Bird: A pioneer of the three-point shot, Bird’s shooting was revolutionary for his era but didn’t match the volume or efficiency of modern players.

  

Verdict: The greatest shooter?

Stephen Curry isn’t just the greatest shooter of all time—he’s in a category of his own. His records, efficiency, range, and influence have redefined what’s possible in basketball. While legends like Ray Allen and Reggie Miller paved the way, Curry has taken shooting to heights previously unimaginable.

“Curry’s dominance isn’t just about making shots—it’s about changing how we think about the game itself,” said a former NBA coach.

Conclusion

Stephen Curry’s career is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and consistency. While debates about the greatest shooter may never end, one thing is certain: Stephen Curry has set a standard that will challenge and inspire generations to come.