The most 3 pointers made in an NBA game represents the pinnacle of modern offensive efficiency, a statistical summit achieved through a blend of relentless practice, tactical genius, and clutch performance. This record is not merely a number; it is a testament to a player’s ability to dominate a game from beyond the arc, stretching the floor and forcing defenses into impossible choices. Understanding the context, the players, and the evolution of this record provides a deeper appreciation for the skill required to light up the scoreboard from three-point territory.
Stephen Curry: The Architect of the Modern Record
When discussing the most 3 pointers made in an NBA game, the conversation inevitably centers on Stephen Curry. On December 14, 2021, playing for the Golden State Warriors against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Curry fired through 15 three-point shots. This monumental performance shattered the previous benchmark and redefined the expectations of what is possible in a single night. Curry’s combination of unprecedented shooting range, off-ball movement, and the gravity of his threat created a scenario where he was virtually unguardable, leading to this historic outburst that still stands as the NBA record.
DeMar DeRozan’s Near-Record Performance
While Curry holds the record for most makes, the path to this achievement was paved by earlier efforts, including a notable performance from DeMar DeRozan. On January 3, 2022, DeRozan, then with the Sacramento Kings, connected on 14 three-pointers in a game against the Chicago Bulls. His 14 makes demonstrated that a versatile, mid-range specialist could also adapt his game to the three-point era, coming agonizingly close to dethroning Curry in a display of efficient long-range shooting that highlighted the changing landscape of the NBA.
The Evolution of the Three-Point Record
The record for most 3 pointers made in a game has seen a steady upward trajectory, mirroring the league’s overall embrace of the three-point shot. Before Curry’s 15 in 2021, the record was held by Klay Thompson, who had set the mark with 14 makes in 2016. Going further back, players like Kobe Bryant and Paul Pierce were setting benchmarks in an era where the three-pointer was a strategic weapon rather than the foundational offensive pillar it is today. This progression illustrates a dramatic shift in offensive philosophy, prioritizing volume and efficiency from long range.
