Most 3 Pointers in a Game: Breaking the Records

In the fast-paced and exhilarating sport of basketball, the three-point shot has become an integral part of the game. It requires a combination of accuracy, precision, and skill to consistently sink the ball from beyond the arc. Throughout the history of the sport, there have been countless remarkable performances by players who have etched their names in the record books for their prolific three-point shooting.

This article delves into the fascinating world of three-point shooting, exploring the players who have made the most three-pointers in a single game. We will uncover the stories behind these extraordinary feats and analyze the factors that contribute to their success.

As we delve into the specific records and player achievements, it is important to note that the rules and regulations surrounding the three-point shot have evolved over time. The distance from the basket to the three-point line has varied depending on the league and era, and these changes have influenced the frequency and success rate of three-point shots.

Most 3 Pointers in a Game

Throughout the history of basketball, several players have showcased their exceptional three-point shooting abilities by sinking an extraordinary number of three-pointers in a single game.

• Stephen Curry
• Klay Thompson
• Kobe Bryant
• James Harden
• Damian Lillard
• Kyrie Irving
• Kevin Durant
• Jayson Tatum

These players have demonstrated remarkable skill, consistency, and efficiency from beyond the arc, leaving an indelible mark on the game of basketball.

Stephen Curry

• Unstoppable Force: Curry's shooting prowess was on full display that night as he hit 13 of his 17 three-point attempts, an astonishing 76.5% accuracy rate. He poured in a total of 53 points, leading the Warriors to a 122-116 victory.
• Beyond the Arc Dominance: Curry's 13 three-pointers made in a single game is the most by any player in NBA history, breaking the previous record of 12 set by Kobe Bryant and Donyell Marshall.
• Sharpshooting Efficiency: Not only did Curry make a record number of three-pointers, but he also did so with incredible efficiency. His 76.5% shooting percentage is the highest three-point percentage in a single game by any player who has attempted at least 10 three-pointers.
• Offensive Masterclass: Curry's record-breaking performance was part of a larger offensive explosion, as he shot 20-of-38 from the field overall. He also dished out 10 assists, narrowly missing out on a triple-double.
• Historical Significance: Curry's 13 three-pointers in a single game stands as one of the greatest shooting performances in NBA history. It showcased his unparalleled range, accuracy, and ability to impact the game from beyond the arc.

Klay Thompson

• Record-Tying Performance: Thompson tied Stephen Curry's record of 13 three-pointers in a single game on October 29, 2018, against the Chicago Bulls. He shot 13-of-19 from three-point range, finishing with a total of 52 points.
• Offensive Explosion: Thompson's record-tying performance was part of a historic offensive night for the Warriors. The team made a combined 29 three-pointers, setting a new NBA record for most three-pointers made in a single game.
• Back-to-Back Record Breakers: Thompson's 13 three-pointers came just 16 days after Curry's record-breaking performance. This marked the first time in NBA history that two players from the same team had made 13 three-pointers in a game.
• "Game 6 Klay": Thompson has a reputation for elevating his play in the playoffs, earning the nickname "Game 6 Klay" for his impressive performances in close-out games. His record-tying performance in the regular season is a testament to his ability to perform at the highest level when it matters most.

James Harden

James Harden, renowned for his prolific scoring and playmaking abilities, has also etched his name among the players with the most three-pointers in a single game.

On January 23, 2021, while playing for the Houston Rockets, Harden exploded for 13 three-pointers against the San Antonio Spurs. He shot an impressive 13-of-21 from beyond the arc, finishing with a total of 60 points.

Harden's record-setting performance was part of a dominant offensive display by the Rockets. The team made a combined 25 three-pointers, tying the NBA record for most three-pointers made in a single game.

Harden's ability to create his own shot and draw fouls has made him one of the most dangerous offensive players in the NBA. His record-breaking three-point shooting performance is a testament to his exceptional scoring prowess.

Damian Lillard

Damian Lillard, known for his clutch shooting and high-scoring performances, has also showcased his exceptional three-point shooting abilities.

On January 20, 2023, while playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, Lillard erupted for 13 three-pointers against the Houston Rockets. He shot an incredible 13-of-27 from beyond the arc, finishing with a total of 71 points.

Lillard's record-breaking performance was part of a historic offensive night for the Trail Blazers. The team made a combined 22 three-pointers, setting a new franchise record for most three-pointers made in a single game.

Lillard's ability to hit difficult shots and create his own offense has made him one of the most exciting players in the NBA. His record-setting three-point shooting performance is a testament to his exceptional scoring prowess and ability to carry his team.

Kyrie Irving

• Record-Setting Performance: On March 25, 2023, while playing for the Dallas Mavericks, Irving exploded for 13 three-pointers against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He shot an impressive 13-of-20 from beyond the arc, finishing with a total of 53 points.
• Near-Perfect Shooting: Irving's shooting performance against the Timberwolves was remarkable for its accuracy. He made his first eight three-point attempts and finished the game shooting 65% from three-point range.
• Offensive Explosion: Irving's record-setting performance was part of a dominant offensive display by the Mavericks. The team made a combined 20 three-pointers, leading to a 124-116 victory.
• Clutch Shooting: Irving's three-point shooting ability is particularly valuable in clutch situations. He has a knack for hitting big shots late in games, making him a formidable opponent in close contests.

Kevin Durant

• Record-Setting Performance: On February 10, 2023, while playing for the Phoenix Suns, Durant recorded a career-high 12 three-pointers against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He shot 12-of-15 from beyond the arc, finishing with a total of 55 points.
• Efficient Shooting Display: Durant's shooting performance against the Thunder was remarkable for its efficiency. He shot 80% from three-point range, showcasing his ability to make shots consistently from deep.
• Offensive Dominance: Durant's record-setting performance was part of a dominant offensive display by the Suns. The team made a combined 24 three-pointers, leading to a 140-114 victory.
• Versatile Scoring Threat: Durant's three-point shooting ability makes him a versatile scoring threat. He can create his own shot and score from anywhere on the court, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Jayson Tatum

Jayson Tatum, a rising star in the NBA, has emerged as one of the most promising young shooters in the league.

On January 25, 2023, while playing for the Boston Celtics, Tatum erupted for a career-high 10 three-pointers against the Sacramento Kings. He shot an impressive 10-of-17 from beyond the arc, finishing with a total of 49 points.

Tatum's record-setting performance was part of a dominant offensive display by the Celtics. The team made a combined 25 three-pointers, setting a new franchise record for most three-pointers made in a single game.

Tatum's ability to create his own shot and hit difficult three-pointers makes him a dangerous offensive threat. His record-breaking performance is a testament to his exceptional shooting skills and his potential to become one of the best shooters in the NBA.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the most three-pointers made in a game:

Question 1: Who holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single NBA game?
Answer: Stephen Curry holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single NBA game, with 13 three-pointers made on November 13, 2018, against the Sacramento Kings.

Question 2: Which players have made 12 three-pointers in a single NBA game?
Answer: Klay Thompson, James Harden, Damian Lillard, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, and Jayson Tatum have all made 12 three-pointers in a single NBA game.

Question 3: Which team holds the record for the most three-pointers made in a single NBA game?
Answer: The Houston Rockets hold the record for the most three-pointers made in a single NBA game, with 27 three-pointers made on December 14, 2019, against the Utah Jazz.

Question 4: What is the highest three-point shooting percentage in a single NBA game?
Answer: Stephen Curry holds the record for the highest three-point shooting percentage in a single NBA game, shooting 13-of-17 (76.5%) from three-point range on November 13, 2018, against the Sacramento Kings.

Question 5: Which players have made at least 10 three-pointers in multiple NBA games?
Answer: Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, James Harden, Damian Lillard, and Kyrie Irving have all made at least 10 three-pointers in multiple NBA games.

Question 6: What is the significance of making a high number of three-pointers in an NBA game?
Answer: Making a high number of three-pointers in an NBA game can significantly impact the outcome of the game. Three-pointers are worth more points than two-pointers, and they can help a team gain a lead and maintain it throughout the game.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the most three-pointers made in a game. For more information, please refer to the rest of the article.

Tips

Here are a few tips for players who want to improve their three-point shooting and potentially make more three-pointers in a game:

1. Practice Regularly: The key to becoming a proficient three-point shooter is to practice regularly. This means spending hours in the gym, working on your shot form, release point, and follow-through.

2. Focus on Accuracy: Don't just focus on shooting as many three-pointers as possible. Instead, focus on making your shots with a high degree of accuracy. This means taking your time, lining up your shot, and releasing the ball with a smooth motion.

3. Develop a Quick Release: One of the most important things for a three-point shooter is to have a quick release. This means being able to get your shot off quickly and without hesitation. A quick release will make it more difficult for defenders to close out on you and block your shot.

4. Use Proper Form: Proper shooting form is essential for making three-pointers consistently. This means keeping your elbow under the ball, your feet shoulder-width apart, and your back straight. A good shooting form will help you generate more power and accuracy on your shots.

By following these tips, you can improve your three-point shooting skills and potentially make more three-pointers in a game. However, it's important to remember that becoming a great three-point shooter takes time and dedication.

Conclusion

The ability to make a high number of three-pointers in a single NBA game is a rare and impressive feat. It requires a combination of skill, accuracy, and consistency. Throughout the history of the league, several players have showcased their exceptional three-point shooting abilities, breaking records and leaving an indelible mark on the game.

From Stephen Curry's record-breaking 13 three-pointers in a game to the numerous players who have made 12 three-pointers in a single game, the three-point shot has become an integral part of the modern NBA. Players who can consistently make threes are highly valued and can significantly impact the outcome of games.

As the game continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more players emerge as prolific three-point shooters. The three-point shot is an exciting and dynamic element of basketball, and it is one of the things that makes the game so enjoyable to watch.