Most 3 Pointers in a game

NBA has come a long way from it’s early stages where a team’s offense was usually built around it’s big men. While the perimeter-oriented game has been a part of NBA offences since a long time, it has never been as important as in the today’s game. Most offences in the modern NBA are designed to exploit the 2 most efficient shots in basketball- the layup/dunk and the 3 point shot. So it shouldn’t surprise anyone that some of the best 3 point shooters of all time play the modern NBA. Today we are going to have a look at a list of players who made the most 3 point shots in an NBA game.

1. Klay Thompson (14 threes made on 2018-10-29)

On Oct 28, 2019, basketball fans witnessed history as Klay Thompson, the sharpshooting guard for the Golden State Warriors, made an astonishing 14 three-pointers in a single game. Facing the Chicago Bulls, Thompson’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, setting a new NBA record for the most three-pointers made in a single game.

Thompson’s incredible feat left spectators in awe as he showcased his exceptional shooting skills and seemingly unlimited range. His 14 three-pointers came on just 24 attempts, underscoring his accuracy and consistency throughout the game. His performance not only elevated the Warriors to victory but also reminded the league how scary the splash bros can be on any given night.

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2. Damian Lillard (13 threes made on 2023-02-26)        

Damian Lillard is well known as one of the most dynamic point guards of this era. Drafted by the Portland Trailblazers in 2012, Dame spent a decade in the city of Portland where he formed a dynamic back-court with another dynamic guard in CJ McCollum. The duo was well known for their offensive explosions as either of the guards could go off on any given night.

In his final season with the Portland Trailblazers, Dame went off for a monster 71 point performance vs the Houston Rockets in which he made 13 3 point shots, 2^nd only to the Warriors’ sharp shooter Klay Thompson. Lillard became the oldest NBA star to have a 70 pt game that night as well. Dame was later traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2023 off-season where he now is a part of a dynamic duo with the former league MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.

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 3. Zach LaVine (13 threes made on 2019-11-23)

Zach LaVine, a rising star in the NBA, has captivated basketball fans with his electrifying athleticism and scoring prowess. LaVine honed his skills at UCLA before being drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014. Known for his jaw-dropping dunks, LaVine has participated in the Slam Dunk Contest multiple times, winning twice; famously winning the 2016 contest beating out Aaron Gordon in what is considered by many to be the greatest dunk contest of all time.

In 2017, he was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he has evolved into a dynamic scoring machine. LaVine’s ability to drain three-pointers and create highlight-reel plays makes him a fan favorite. Lavine’s versatility is highlighted by the fact that despite being known as one of the best dunkers of all time, Zach also holds the record for most 3 pointers made in a game by a Chicago Bull. He hit 13 pointers vs the Charlotte Hornets in a masterful 49 pts performance in come from behind victory for the Bulls in 2019-20 season.

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4. Stephen Curry (13 threes made on 2016-11-07)

Steph Curry, born Wardell Stephen Curry II on March 14, 1988, is a basketball icon who has redefined the game. As a point guard for the Golden State Warriors, Curry is known for his remarkable three-point shooting prowess, revolutionizing the sport by stretching the limits of what’s possible from beyond the arc. His shooting range and ball-handling skills are unparalleled, earning him the nickname “The Baby-Faced Assassin.” Curry’s impact on the game is parallel to none as we see young basketball players everywhere try and emulate the Chef’s shooting and dribbling skills.

Steph went on a tear vs the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016 as he hit 13-17 3 pt shots that night helping the Warriors beat the Pelicans 116-106. Spoiler alert: this is not the last time you’ll see Wardell (or a member of the splash brothers) on this list.

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5. Klay Thompson (12 threes made on 2023-02-24 and 2023-02-06)

It should be to no one’s surprise that Klay Thompson is on this list again twice. The taller splash brother is considered by many to have the prettiest jumpshot in NBA history. So, it shouldn’t be shocking that on nights when he is hot, he usually breaks/creates shooting records.

We already know that Klay has the record for most 3 pointers made in a game with 14 but he also has 2 other performances where he hit 12 3 pointers.

On 6^th February, 2023 Klay went off for 42 points, making 13 3 pointers in a 141-114 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Later in the same month, the Warriors’ star went off for 42 points once again while making… 12 3 pointers once again! The entire Warriors’ squad went off that night making 26-37 attempts from 3 pt territory that night.

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6. Stephen Curry (12 threes made on 2016-02-27)

We told you that it wasn’t the last time you would see Wardell’s name on this list. Here we are again. Steph went off against the Thunder in 2016 when he made 12 three pointers in the Chesapeake arena in 121-118 victory over Oklahoma City. This was the same game where Steph pulled up from just past the half court to tie the game accompanied by one of the most iconic Mike Breen ‘BANG’s of all time. Steph would go on to win the anonymous MVP that season becoming the only player in NBA history to do so.

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7. Donyell Marshall (12 threes made on 2005-03-13)

 Donyell Marshall, a former NBA forward, left an indelible mark on the league with his versatile play. Standing at 6’9″, Marshall was known for his ability to stretch the floor, making him a valuable asset for any team. He had a successful college career at the University of Connecticut before being drafted fourth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1994.

Marshall’s NBA journey included stints with several teams, but he found his stride with the Toronto Raptors, where he set a record by making 12 three-pointers in a single game vs the Philadelphia 76ers coming off the bench. He finished the night with 38 points in a victory for the North. His long-range shooting and defensive skills made him a dependable player over his 15-year career, earning respect from fans and peers alike

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8.  Kobe Bryant  (12 threes made on 2003-01-07)

Kobe Bryant, often hailed as one of the greatest basketball players in history, left an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond. Kobe’s journey to basketball stardom began at an early age. He joined the NBA directly from high school, a rare feat, and spent his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.

During his illustrious career, Kobe accumulated numerous accolades, including five NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and 18 All-Star selections. His unmatched work ethic, tenacity, and competitive spirit earned him the nickname “Black Mamba.” He was known for his scoring ability, footwork, and clutch performances, becoming a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide.

Despite being a freakish athlete, Kobe was known for his shot making ability which often drew comparisons with Michael Jordan. Kobe went off for a monster 45-point night vs the Seattle Supersonics in 2003 making 12 3 pointers on his way. This was a record for the most 3 pointers made in a single game in NBA history at that point and was broken by Steph Curry over a decade later!

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This entry was posted on Friday, October 27th, 2023 at 5:22 pm and is filed under Top 10 Lists. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.