Stephen Curry, widely regarded as the greatest three-point shooter in NBA history, recently acknowledged another player as superior to himself in that category. During a recent interview, the Golden State Warriors star credited Ray Allen as the best shooter of all time, despite holding the record for the most three-point shots made. This acknowledgment sheds new light on how Curry views the art and legacy of shooting from beyond the arc.
Stephen Curry’s Impact and Rising Legacy in Three-Point Shooting
Curry entered the NBA in 2009 and, despite early struggles with ankle injuries, quickly evolved into one of the league’s most influential players. His exceptional shooting range has revolutionized basketball, pushing teams to emphasize three-point attempts as a central strategy. As a result, his career achievements have earned him widespread recognition as the greatest three-point shooter, a status supported by his record-breaking volume of successful shots.
At age 37 and still active, Curry continues to extend his lead in three-point shooting statistics, enhancing his legacy with each season. While many basketball fans consider him the benchmark for shooting excellence, Curry’s recent remarks highlight a different perspective on the history of three-point shooting.
Choosing Ray Allen Over Klay Thompson and Himself
For over a decade, if Stephen Curry was not considered the best shooter, many pointed to his former teammate, Klay Thompson, as a close rival. Together, they formed the renowned “Splash Brothers,” a duo that dominated the NBA with their sharpshooting abilities. Their influence played a critical role in Golden State’s four NBA championships and altered how the game is approached at every level.
Despite this formidable partnership, Curry declined to name either himself or Thompson as the greatest three-point shooter when asked. Instead, he chose to honor Ray Allen, a legendary shooting guard known for his precise form and clutch shooting throughout his career. Curry told Sports Illustrated:
“I’d say, Ray Allen. I think his form, his dedication to his craft, he hit big shots in his career.”
—Stephen Curry, NBA Player
Ray Allen’s Lasting Influence on Three-Point Shooting
Before Curry surpassed his record, Ray Allen held the most three-point shots made in NBA history. His shooting technique and consistency set a high standard for future generations. Allen’s ability to perform under pressure contributed to championship success with both the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, winning titles in his first seasons with those teams.
Throughout his career, Allen maintained an impressive 40% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc despite taking a high volume of attempts. His excellence as a shooter marked him as a pioneer who helped define the significance of the three-point shot in modern basketball.
Curry’s recognition of Allen underscores the respect he has for those who paved the way in shooting proficiency, suggesting a deep awareness of basketball’s evolving history and the players who contributed to its growth.