The Rise of the Three-Point Shot in the Modern NBA
Over the past two decades, the NBA has undergone a major transformation in how the game is played. The three-point shot is no longer a secondary option—it has become a central weapon in offensive strategy. Spacing, shot efficiency, and volume shooting from beyond the arc now play a decisive role in determining success at the highest level.
As a result, the NBA’s all-time three-point leaderboard is increasingly dominated by players from the modern era. Even more remarkable, seven of the top 10 three-point scorers in NBA history are still active players as of the 2025/2026 season, meaning the rankings remain highly competitive and subject to change.
The most recent milestone came when Kevin Durant officially entered the top 10, surpassing NBA legend Vince Carter.
Kevin Durant Breaks into the NBA Top 10 Three-Point Scorers
Kevin Durant reached another historic achievement during a game against the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, January 29, 2026. By converting two three-point shots in that matchup, Durant increased his career total to 2,292 made three-pointers, placing him 10th on the NBA’s all-time list.
Despite being widely known for his mid-range scoring and versatility as a forward, Durant has quietly established himself as one of the most reliable long-range shooters in league history. His entry into the top 10 confirms that Durant’s offensive impact extends far beyond traditional scoring zones.
Paul George Holds Ninth Place and Eyes Kyle Korver
Just above Durant sits Paul George, who currently occupies ninth place on the all-time three-point scoring list. As of January 29, 2026, George has recorded 2,414 made three-pointers in his NBA career.
George is within striking distance of climbing higher, needing only 37 additional three-pointers to surpass retired sharpshooter Kyle Korver for eighth place. Given George’s consistent shooting volume and overall health, a ranking jump appears very realistic in the near future—assuming injuries do not interfere.
LeBron James Ranks Sixth Despite Not Being a Pure Shooter
Few names appear across as many all-time NBA statistical categories as LeBron James, and three-point shooting is no exception. With 2,602 career three-pointers, LeBron currently ranks sixth all-time.
What makes this achievement particularly notable is that LeBron has never been categorized as a pure perimeter shooter. Instead, his longevity, adaptability, and evolution of his shooting range have allowed him to steadily accumulate long-range makes throughout his career.
While LeBron is still capable of adding to his total, the gap above him is significant. With retirement widely expected after the 2025/2026 season, his position on the leaderboard is likely to remain unchanged.
Injury Forces Damian Lillard Down to Fifth Place
Damian Lillard was once firmly positioned in fourth place on the all-time list, but his current Achilles injury has temporarily halted his climb. Lillard has missed the entire 2025/2026 season, freezing his three-point total at 2,804 made shots.
As a result, Lillard now sits fifth all-time as of January 29, 2026. This setback is unfortunate, especially considering his reputation as one of the most clutch long-range shooters in NBA history.
Even if Lillard returns to full health, reclaiming a higher position will be challenging given the narrow margins and strong competition above him.
Klay Thompson Climbs to Fourth After Career Comeback
Taking advantage of Lillard’s absence, Klay Thompson has moved into fourth place on the NBA’s all-time three-point list, with 2,823 made three-pointers.
This achievement carries special significance, as Thompson missed nearly two full seasons between 2019 and 2021 due to major injuries. His return to elite shooting form stands as one of the most impressive comebacks in recent NBA history.
Thompson is now within approximately 150 three-pointers of Ray Allen, who holds third place. While reaching that mark in a single season is unlikely, the possibility remains open over the remainder of Thompson’s career.
James Harden Firmly Established in Second Place
At second place all-time stands James Harden, one of the most prolific scorers and shooters the NBA has ever seen. As of January 29, 2026, Harden has converted 3,306 three-point shots in his career.
Although surpassing the top spot is unrealistic, Harden has a strong opportunity to secure his position as the second-greatest three-point scorer in NBA history before retirement. His combination of shot creation, high-volume attempts, and offensive freedom has fueled his climb up the leaderboard.
Stephen Curry Remains Untouchable at the Top
There is no debate at the top of the list. Stephen Curry continues to stand alone as the greatest three-point shooter in NBA history. With 4,229 made three-pointers as of January 29, 2026, Curry holds a commanding lead over every other player.
Beyond records, Curry has fundamentally changed how basketball is played at every level. His influence on shooting mechanics, offensive spacing, and team strategy has reshaped the modern NBA. Given his ongoing productivity, Curry’s record appears untouchable for the foreseeable future.
Conclusion: The Golden Era of NBA Three-Point Shooting
The presence of seven active players within the NBA’s top 10 all-time three-point scorers highlights the dominance of perimeter shooting in today’s game. Advances in skill development, analytics-driven strategy, and pace have accelerated record-breaking performances across the league.
With players like Curry, Harden, Thompson, Durant, and Paul George still active, further movement within the rankings is inevitable. However, one truth remains clear: the three-point shot has become the defining element of the modern NBA, and its greatest practitioners are shaping history in real time.
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