10 Best NBA Shooters of All Time

The best NBA shooters of all time have transformed the game with their precision, range, and scoring under pressure. These legendary marksmen shaped how basketball is played and continue to influence today’s NBA picks and NBA player prop bets. 

Whether it’s from beyond the arc or in clutch moments, their shooting skills have set them apart from the rest. With that in mind, let’s rank the 10 greatest shooters to ever step on an NBA court.

10. Damian Lillard – Dagger Long-Range Threes

Career Stats: 25.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 6.70 APG; 43.9 FG%, 37.1 FG3%, 89.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year, 9x NBA All-Star, 10x All-NBA selections
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Damian Lillard kicks off the best NBA shooters of all time list, combining elite range, clutch performance, and scoring ability. Known for pulling up from well beyond the arc, Lillard redefined what it means to have “logo range.” His smooth shooting mechanics, quick release, and confidence under pressure make him a feared shooter in the league. Whether it’s a regular season game or a playoff battle, Lillard consistently delivers when it counts—especially in late-game situations.

What truly separates Lillard is his ability to create his own shot from anywhere on the court. He’s not just a catch-and-shoot player—he thrives off the dribble, breaking defenses and launching threes off screens or in isolation. Moreover, his iconic buzzer-beaters, including the game-winner over Paul George in 2019, have cemented his legacy in NBA history.

For fans and bettors alike, Lillard’s shooting also makes him a favorite on NBA betting sites. He frequently hits over on three-point and points props, making him a go-to pick in player prop markets. With his consistency, volume, and dramatic flair, Damian Lillard stands tall among the greatest shooters the NBA has ever seen.

9. Kyle Korver – Reliable Three Point Assassin

Career Stats: 9.7 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 1.7 APG; 44.2 FG%, 42.9 FG3%, 87.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA All-Star

Kyle Korver lands ninth on the best NBA shooters list thanks to his remarkable efficiency, quick release, and off-ball movement. Throughout his 17-season career, Korver built a reputation as a pure shooter, consistently ranking among league leaders in three-point percentage. He finished his career shooting an impressive 42.9% from beyond the arc. During the 2009-10 season, he had a league-leading 53.6% from three—one of the highest single-season marks in NBA history.

Korver thrived in the NBA’s “pace and space” era, where floor spacing and perimeter shooting became essential to offensive success. He excelled in catch-and-shoot situations and was lethal coming off screens; he stretched defenses to open the floor for teammates. Teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers fully leveraged his gravity as a shooter to create mismatches.

Despite not being a primary scorer, Korver’s impact on the game was undeniable. Defenses constantly tracked him, knowing a split-second lapse could result in three quick points. His ability to stay ready, move intelligently, and shoot with precision made him a valuable asset in modern offensive schemes. In today’s three-point-heavy game, Kyle Korver’s legacy as an elite marksman remains firmly intact.

8. Reggie Miller – Mr. Nailbiter

Career Stats: 18.2 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.0 APG; 47.1 FG%, 39.5 FG3%, 88.8 FT%
Notable Achievements: 5x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections

Reggie Miller earns his eighth place on the Best NBA Shooters of All Time list. This is thanks to his fearless mentality, unmatched confidence, and deep shooting range each time he plays on the court. 

Over his 18-year career with the Indiana Pacers, Miller became known for hitting big shots in the biggest moments. He retired as the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made at the time. He finished with 2,560 threes and a career 3-point shooting percentage of 39.5%. This statline was impressive in an era where the three-point shot wasn’t nearly as emphasized as it is today.

It cannot be understated that Miller thrived under pressure during his prime years. He had a knack for delivering clutch performances to douse the opposing team’s morale. His most iconic outing saw him scoring 8 points in 9 seconds against the New York Knicks in 1995. This clutch scoring performance still stands as one of the most iconic moments in NBA playoff history. 

Miller’s quick release and ability to shoot off movement made him a nightmare for defenders. He constantly ran through screens, stayed in motion, and needed just a sliver of space to fire away.

More than just stats, Miller’s competitive fire and fearlessness made him one of the most respected shooters of his generation. He was the prototype for the modern shooting guard, paving the way for the three-point revolution. Reggie Miller didn’t just shoot—he rose to every occasion and delivered.

7. Steve Nash – 50-40-90 Club Member

Career Stats: 14.3 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.5 APG; 49.0 FG%, 42.8 FG3%, 90.4 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA MVP, 8x NBA All-Star, 7x All-NBA selections

Steve Nash ranks among the best NBA shooters of all time due to his exceptional efficiency, shot selection, and incredible consistency. A two-time MVP and one of the most cerebral playmakers, Nash orchestrated offenses while shooting with elite accuracy. 

Moreover, Nash is a 4-time member of the exclusive 50/40/90 club. This meant shooting at least 50% from the field, 40% from three, and 90% from the free-throw line. Nash’s four seasons with such a statline is more than any other player in NBA history. His career averages of 49.0% FG, 42.8% 3P, and 90.4% FT reflect his mastery as a shooter.

While many great shooters rely on volume, Nash’s greatness came from efficiency and timing. He rarely forced shots, but when he did pull up—especially in clutch moments—he delivered. Whether it was a smooth jumper off a screen or a spot-up three in transition, Nash’s shooting touch is elite.

In addition to being an elite shooter, Nash is widely regarded as one of the best NBA point guards ever. His court vision, playmaking, and leadership helped define the modern, fast-paced offensive era. Steve Nash’s shooting wasn’t just efficient—it was a vital part of his Hall of Fame legacy.

6. Dirk Nowitzki – Refining the Stretch 4 Role

Career Stats: 20.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.4 APG; 47.1 FG%, 38.0 FG3%, 87.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x Finals MVP, 1x NBA MVP, 14x NBA All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections

Dirk Nowitzki revolutionized the game and earned his spot as one of the best NBA shooters of all time. Through his unmatched shooting touch, versatility, and game-changing impact, Nowitzki redefined what a big man could do on offense. His signature one-legged fadeaway became one of the most unguardable shots in basketball history,combining footwork, finesse, and perfect form.

Throughout his 21-year career with the Dallas Mavericks, Dirk consistently knocked down shots from all areas of the court. He finished with over 31,000 career points and a career shooting line only few can dream of. 

Nowitzki shot 47.1% from the field, 38% from three, and 87.9% from the free-throw line. His ability to stretch the floor as a power forward paved the way for the modern “stretch four” and helped usher in a new era of spacing in the NBA.

Dirk didn’t just shoot well—he shot in the biggest moments. His legendary 2011 NBA Finals performance saw him hit clutch shots against the Miami Heat’s Big Three. This MVP outing against the favored super team solidified his legacy as a cold-blooded shooter. 

With size, skill, and unmatched precision, Dirk Nowitzki changed the way the game is played. Suffice to say, Nowitzki left an enduring mark as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.

5. Ray Allen – Silky Smooth Jumper, One of the Best NBA Shooters of All Time

Career Stats: 18.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.4 APG; 45.2 FG%, 40.0 FG3% 89.4 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 10x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections

Ray Allen sits at the fifth spot on the best NBA shooters of all time list. Allen is known for his lightning-quick release, flawless shooting mechanics, and clutch shot-making ability. 

Over an 18-season career, Allen set the standard for perimeter shooting, retiring as the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made. He held this record for some time until Stephen Curry ultimately surpassed him. Allen finished his career shooting 40% from beyond the arc and 89.4% from the free-throw line. This shooting prowess made him a constant threat every time he touched the ball.

What made Allen truly elite was his movement without the ball. He ran defenders through screens with relentless energy, creating space to launch high-percentage shots. His preparation, discipline, and ability to perform under pressure made him a go-to shooter in the most critical moments. His iconic performance was his game-tying three in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. Allen’s baseline three at the key moment helped save the Miami Heat’s championship hopes.

For fans and bettors, Allen’s consistency also made him a reliable figure in NBA betting lines during his career. Whether it was hitting overs on three-point props or coming through in clutch playoff games, Allen was a trusty sharpshooter. Ray Allen’s legacy as one of the game’s purest and most effective shooters remains untouched.

4. Larry Bird – Larry Legend’s Undeniable Clutch Gene

Career Stats: 24.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG; 49.6 FG%, 37.6 FG3%, 88.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 3x NBA MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year, 12x NBA All-Star, 14x All-NBA selections

Larry Bird lands fourth on the best NBA shooters of all time list with his accuracy, competitiveness, and clutch shots. During his 13-year career with the Boston Celtics, Bird showcased  his blend of confidence and skill on the court. 

He finished his career with an impressive shooting line at the time. Bird shot 49.6% from the field, 37.6% from three-point range, and 88.6% from the free-throw line. These are remarkable numbers, especially in an era when the three-point shot was still evolving.

However, Bird didn’t just shoot well—he made the biggest shots when it mattered most. Whether it was a buzzer-beater, a go-ahead jumper, or a dagger three, Bird thrived in pressure situations. He famously won three NBA Three-Point Contests, walking into the locker room and asking his competitors, “Who’s coming in second?” That swagger wasn’t just for show—he backed it up every time.

What set Bird apart was his ability to shoot with precision while under tight defense. Bird would often create space with his high basketball IQ rather than pure athleticism. 

He didn’t just play the game—he controlled it. Bird’s shooting touch, competitive spirit, and icy composure make him a true legend among NBA sharpshooters.

3. Klay Thompson – Modern-day Microwave

Career Stats: 19.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.3 APG; 45.1 FG%, 41.1 FG3%, 86.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 5x NBA All-Star, 4x All-NBA selections
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Klay Thompson is third on our best NBA shooters of all time list, and for good reason. He is known for his lightning-quick release, textbook form, and incredible ability to catch fire at any moment. 

As a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors dynasty, Thompson has delivered countless jaw-dropping shooting performances, highlighting his elite skill. He owns the NBA record for most points in a single quarter – 37 points in the third. He also holds the record for most three-pointers made in a game with 14 threes.

What makes Thompson unique is his ability to score in bunches without dominating the ball. He once scored 60 points in 29 minutes on 11 dribbles – a performance encapsulating his off-ball movement and elite shooting. Moreover, Thompson thrives in catch-and-shoot situations, running through screens and releasing the ball in a split-second with flawless form.

Beyond stats, Thompson’s consistency and poise in high-pressure playoff games have solidified his legacy. He’s known for “Game 6 Klay,” a nickname earned from his clutch performances in elimination games. Whether it’s the regular season or the Finals, Klay shows up with his shooting stroke ready.

Thompson isn’t just a great shooter—he’s a historically explosive one, capable of shifting the game’s momentum with his shots.

2. Kevin Durant – Mid-range and Three Point Threat

Career Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG; 50.2 FG%, 39.0 FG3%, 88.2 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x NBA MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year, 15x NBA All-Star, 13x All-NBA selections
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Kevin Durant is unquestionably one of the best NBA shooters of all time, combining elite scoring ability with shooting efficiency. Standing nearly seven feet tall with a comparative wingspan, Durant possesses the rare ability to shoot over virtually any defender. 

His silky-smooth jumper, fluid mechanics, and deep shooting range make him a nightmare to guard. Whether he’s pulling up in transition, hitting mid-range fadeaways, or draining threes, Durant scores with effortless precision.

What truly sets Durant apart is his consistency across all levels of the floor. He holds career shooting averages that are usually seen only with the most elite shooters. He’s over 50% from the field, around 39% from three, and nearly 90% from the free-throw line. Durant has been flirting with the elusive 50/40/90 club for much of his career. These numbers aren’t just impressive—they’re historic.

Durant also shines when the stakes are highest. He’s delivered clutch performances in the NBA Playoffs and Finals. He often outperformed NBA odds and exceeded scoring expectations as he continued to rack up wins. Bettors and analysts alike trust Durant to hit points and shooting props due to his high volume and efficiency.

With his unique combination of size, skill, and shooting touch, Kevin Durant isn’t just a great scorer. He’s one of the most gifted and reliable shooters the league has ever seen.

1. Stephen Curry – Generational Shooter

Career Stats: 24.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.4 APG; 47.1 FG%, 42.3 FG3%, 91.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals Champion, 2x NBA MVP, 11x NBA All-Star, 11x All-NBA selections
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Stephen Curry is the best NBA shooter of all time, and he’s changed the game to prove it. With an unmatched combination of range, quick release, and creativity, Curry redefined what’s possible from beyond the arc. 

He holds the record for the most three-pointers made in NBA history—surpassing legends like Ray Allen and Reggie Miller. Curry continues to raise the bar every season with stellar shooting statlines.  His ability to hit shots from 30, even 40 feet out, has stretched defenses like never before. His tremendous gravity helps open up the floor for teammates in ways no player before him could.

Moreover, what makes Curry’s shooting so special isn’t just volume—it’s efficiency. He’s a career 42% shooter from three while averaging over 8 attempts per game, often under heavy defensive pressure.  Curry is a constant threat anywhere on the floor. The moment he passes halfcourt, all defenses have at least one eye on him. Curry’s deadly when pulling up off the dribble, running off screens, or creating space with dazzling ball-handling.

Beyond the stats, Curry is the ultimate heat-check player—capable of swinging momentum in just seconds. His iconic performances, like his 13-threes-in-a-game night or multiple 50-point explosions, showcase a level of shooting mastery never before seen. Stephen Curry isn’t just the best shooter ever—he’s the architect of basketball’s three-point revolution.