What is the Record for Most Threes in a Game?
The record for most three-pointers made in a single game is a coveted achievement in the world of basketball. It requires a combination of skill, speed, and accuracy, making it a truly remarkable feat. In this article, we’ll delve into the current record, explore the top performances, and examine the players who have achieved this impressive milestone.
What is the Record for Most Threes in a Game?
The current record for most threes in a game is held by Stephen Curry, who made 13 three-pointers for the Golden State Warriors against the New York Knicks on October 30, 2012. This achievement is not only a testament to Curry’s incredible shooting ability but also a testament to the Warriors’ fast-paced, small-ball offense under coach Mark Jackson.
Top Performances
Here are some of the top performances in terms of most three-pointers made in a single game:
| Player | Date | Team | Opponent | Threes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen Curry | 10/30/2012 | Golden State Warriors | New York Knicks | 13 |
| Klay Thompson | 1/23/2015 | Golden State Warriors | Chicago Bulls | 11 |
| Stephen Curry | 11/7/2013 | Golden State Warriors | Toronto Raptors | 11 |
| Kyle Korver | 3/4/2016 | Atlanta Hawks | New Orleans Pelicans | 10 |
| Dirk Nowitzki | 4/1/2007 | Dallas Mavericks | Seattle SuperSonics | 10 |
Interesting Facts and Figures
- Curry’s record-breaking performance on October 30, 2012, was the most three-pointers made by any player in a single game in NBA history until Klay Thompson broke it in 2015.
- Thompson’s 11 three-pointers on January 23, 2015, tied Curry’s record, and both players have since eclipsed the mark.
- Curry has made 13 three-pointers on three occasions (October 30, 2012; November 7, 2013; and March 11, 2016). No other player has achieved this feat more than once.
- Korver’s 10 three-pointers on March 4, 2016, were part of a 3-point contest against the Pelicans, where he set a new NBA record for most consecutive made three-pointers with 34.
The Evolution of Three-Point Shooting
The three-point shot has become an integral part of modern basketball, with its popularity growing steadily over the past three decades. The introduction of the three-point line in the 1979-1980 season marked the beginning of this era, and since then, the emphasis on three-point shooting has grown exponentially.
- 1979-1980: The NBA introduces the three-point line, and the first team to make 10+ three-pointers in a game is the Los Angeles Lakers on November 10, 1979.
- 1980s: The three-point shot becomes more popular, with the arrival of players like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Ricky Pierce. The top three-point shooting team in the NBA in the 1980s was the Los Angeles Lakers, with an average of 8.2 three-pointers made per game.
- 1990s: The three-point shot continues to grow in popularity, with the introduction of the three-point contest as part of the NBA All-Star weekend. Players like Steve Kerr and Tim Hardaway become known for their deadly three-point shooting.
- 2000s: The modern era of three-point shooting begins, with the emergence of players like Ray Allen and Kobe Bryant. The San Antonio Spurs, led by Allen and Tim Duncan, become the first team to make 30+ three-pointers in a single season (2003-2004).
Conclusion
The record for most three-pointers made in a game is an impressive achievement, requiring a combination of skill, speed, and accuracy. Stephen Curry’s 13 three-pointers on October 30, 2012, set the standard for modern three-point shooting, while players like Klay Thompson, Kyle Korver, and Dirk Nowitzki have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible. As the three-point shot continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how players adapt and push the limits of this exciting aspect of the game.