1. San Antonio Spurs — Victor Wembanyama, F, France
Once more, the Spurs have won the NBA Draft Lottery. And, yet again, it could not have happened at a more opportune time. San Antonio has missed the postseason four years in a row. The Spurs had previously missed the playoffs just four times total since joining the NBA in 1976. This is a franchise unfamiliar with winning droughts, but they picked up a huge win on the night of the NBA Draft Lottery.
As such, they are now in line to draft what many are calling a generational talent. The type of talent only rivaled by LeBron James in terms of hype. Wembanyama is essentially a 7-foot-4 version of Kevin Durant with shot-blocking skills. We’ve never seen a player like this. If he can stay healthy and avoid the foot injuries that plague many his height, we’re looking at a seriously transcendent guy. It’s fitting for the Spurs of all teams to get another big man unicorn (Tim Duncan) ironically hailing from France (Tony Parker).
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2. Charlotte Hornets — Brandon Miller, F, Alabama
Brandon Miller is the type of prospect that scouts salivate over. At a shade under 6-foot-10, he’s the classic explosive athlete with a string bean frame yet tantalizing upside. There’s no doubt that he must add strength and bulk to his 200-pound frame. With that said, Miller does possess a toolbox worth investing in.
He can play both the 3 and 4 spots (and projects to probably be more of a stretch four down the line). Miller is known for being very good in the mid-range, and he also has ability when taking bigger players off the dribble. There’s a smoothness to his game — and the potential on the defensive side of the floor is undeniable. Charlotte narrowly missed out on No. 1, but Miller would be in contention for the top pick any other year and projects to be a good fit next to Hornets star LaMelo Ball.
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3. Portland Trail Blazers — Jarace Walker, F, Houston
Walker is a 6-foot-8 combo forward with a 7-foot-2 wingspan. He plays very hard — on both ends of the floor (a staple of Houston’s program). Walker can get his on the offensive end. This includes playing with the ball in his hands, and also without as a cutter/diver towards the rim. Defensively, Walker can guard multiple positions and utilizes his strength, size, and agility to bother opposing players.
Portland could go any number of ways with this pick. Walker fits in as a plug-and-play piece should the Blazers opt to roll with the players they have now. However, we cannot rule out the potential for a full-on rebuild. Which could possibly include a Damian Lillard trade. If that did happen, one of the remaining guards could be taken at this spot.
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4. Houston Rockets — Scoot Henderson, G, G-League
Jalen Green is a budding star at the shooting guard spot. Kevin Porter Jr. is likely best suited as a creative scorer off the bench. Young big men Jabari Smith and Alperen Sengun are perfect complements to one another. All that’s really missing from this young group is a point guard. Enter Scoot Henderson — the perceived best floor leader from this draft.
Henderson is known for his explosiveness off the dribble. He can get into the lane whenever he wants, and has the ability to finish at the rim quite effortlessly. Henderson is even proficient with a silk midrange jumper. What most impresses us is his collective savvy. He plays the game under control, and is very adept at getting others involved. Houston would be doing cartwheels if Henderson falls to this spot.
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5. Detroit Pistons — Amen Thompson, G, Overtime Elite
Like twin brother Ausar, Amen skipped college in favor of a faster route to playing professional basketball. he’s a springy 6-foot-7 wing with an impressive 6-foot-11 wingspan. With his impressive frame, Ausar is a potential matchup nightmare at the two spot. He can shoot over most players at his position, and Amen also has the athletic ability to get to the paint at will.
This would be a good fit for the Pistons, as Amen has some considerable upside. We’re not saying he’s the next Tracy McGrady. Amen is considerably shorter in comparison. However, there are some crossover traits between their respective games.
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6. Orlando Magic — Anthony Black, G, Arkansas
Black is a unique player. If LaMelo Ball, Kyle Anderson, and Shaun Livingston had a baby, you’d end up with the freshman out of Arkansas. At 6-foot-7, Black is a true facilitator of the basketball. He won’t necessarily ‘wow’ you with athletic ability. With that said, he has a unique skill-set which is crafted around making life easier for teammates.
The Magic are essentially collecting two-way, high-IQ players who like to share the ball. Black would be a seamless fit as he doesn’t need to necessarily disrupt the offensive flow to be a difference-maker. With Black, Franz Wagner, and Paolo Banchero in tow, the Magic would have three jumbo playmakers who can create for themselves and others.
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7. Indiana Pacers — Cam Whitmore, F, Villanova
Cam Whitmore would be a perfect fit for a Pacers looking to return to the postseason. In terms of his collegiate choice, there wasn’t a better place to hone his skills than Villanova. The Philadelphia product is tough as nails, a high-octane athlete, has a motor that doesn’t stop, and is a very high-character kid.
His athleticism pops off the screen whenever watching him play. Whitmore plays above the rim — and often bigger than his size would indicate as a 6-foot-7 small forward. His ball-handling skills are good, as is his ability to drive to the cup. If he can unlock his perimeter shot and become decent in that category, the sky’s the limit with his potential.
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8. Washington Wizards — Ausar Thompson, G, Overtime Elite
Ausar is a slightly bigger, more defensive-minded player compared to his brother (Amen). Whereas Amen is more of a jumbo two guard, Ausar is a classic wing — ready to compete and take on any challenge in front of him. He is the type of guy who is positionless on that end of the floor. Whether it be smaller, quicker guys or bigger, taller athletes, Ausar relishes the opportunity to make life difficult.
Offensively, Ausar is far from a finished product. He does boast a rather clean shot from the perimeter — though his ball skills need some refining. As an ultimate best-case scenario, you could be looking at someone akin to Kawhi Leonard (if the offensive game improves). If not, the (scary) comparison could be a slightly better offensive version of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.
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9. Utah Jazz — Gradey Dick, F, Kansas
Kansas’ Gradey Dick was one of the stars of college basketball last season. The Wichita native made a name for himself in an impressive early-season performance versus Duke, and continued his ascent while being a consistent contributor for a Jayhawks team which finished the regular season ranked 4th in the country.
Dick is the ideal wing in today’s league. He’s 6-foot-8, a knockdown shooter, good athlete, and capable playmaker. Players who check all of those boxes do not fall outside of the lottery. The Jazz are in need of some long-range specialists after trading away both Mike Conley Jr. and Malik Beasley last year. Inserting him into a starting lineup which should include Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler makes for a nice young core in Utah.
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10. Dallas Mavericks — Cason Wallace, G, Kentucky
Cason Wallace is a dog in the best sense of the term. He’s a defensive stopper who hounds opposing guards with relentless pressure. Many compare Wallace to Jrue Holiday stylistically. He’s a good athlete, but the things separating him most include his defensive ability and high basketball I.Q.
Wallace prides himself on being a lockdown defender. He’ll also shoot the three ball — and can also get to the cup with some shiftiness. As we’ve seen with Holiday, having a two-way guard with combo skills is a massive advantage for any contender. Especially when the other guards on your team (in this case, Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving) are averse to the defensive end of the floor.
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11. Orlando Magic (from CHI) — Keyonte George, G, Baylor
The Baylor frosh is an intriguing player. In terms of a build, he’s quite similar to Marcus Smart. George won’t necessarily beat you with quickness or athleticism. However, he can bully you with strength — and that’s backed up with a really good perimeter shot. Essentially, he’s a younger version of Eric Gordon — with a bit more length. There’s always room for these types of guys who can get a bucket at a moment’s notice. He’s crafty when he needs to be, and plays beyond his years.
Orlando doesn’t have many players with a score-first mentality. Cole Anthony fills that role off the bench, but George is bigger and should hold up better defensively. Having a guy like George on the floor next to natural playmakers like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner will make the Magic increasingly difficult to defend.
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12. Oklahoma City Thunder — Taylor Hendricks, F, UCF
When it’s all said and done Taylor Hendricks could end up being one of the steals towards the end of the lottery. The UCF freshman has steadily climbed boards as scouts laud his frame, motor, and two-way potential. No doubt, whichever team drafts Hendricks will need to be patient with the 19-year-old. However, there’s plenty to be excited about when examining his profile.
Defensively, there’s a lot to like. He has a sturdy frame with decent length and quality footspeed. Additionally, he knocked down 40-percent of his threes in his lone collegiate year. Oklahoma City GM Sam Presti would be ecstatic if it could add Hendricks to a core featuring Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren. That gives OKC a ton of length, defensive versatility, and upside.
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13. Toronto Raptors — Nick Smith, G, Arkansas
The former No. 1 high school recruit (according to 247sports), Smith’s lone injury-riddled campaign at Arkansas bumped him down a bit. Still, this is a gifted offensive player who we could easily envision one day being an NBA All-Star. Smith has the look of a modern-day two-guard with excellent size (6-foot-5), shooting touch, and on-ball creativity. He finishes well near the basket, and boasts the ability to score from every level.
Toronto has never shied away from targeting players that have tremendous upside despite some obvious limitations. Smith’s shot-selection will need to be ironed out, and he’ll need to put on some weight to contend with NBA wings, but the potential is there for a steal at the end of the lottery.
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14. New Orleans Pelicans — Kobe Bufkin, G, Michigan
A microwave scorer who does not back down on the defensive end, Michigan’s Kobe Bufkin is player to look out for in this range of the draft. Players of Bufkin’s ilk are gaining value with each passing year — just look at the success of guys like Tyrese Maxey, Jordan Clarkson, Tyler Herro, and Immanuel Quickley. Even fellow Michigan Wolverine Jordan Poole cashed in on a massive contract extension last season after a strong playoff run. Bufkin can follow in the footsteps of those players as a dynamic threat who can make defenses pay both on- and off-the-ball.
The Pelicans seem to have a nice core in place with the two stars Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson. Of course, health is always going to be an issue — certainly in Zion’s case — but finding players that can fit around those guys is imperative for the Pelicans to breakout into the upper echelon of the West. Bufkin fits the bill, and would be a tremendous pick here.
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15. Atlanta Hawks — Leonard Miller, F, G-League
The Canadian-born Miller will be one of the youngest players eligible to be drafted this year. The 19-year-old doesn’t celebrate his 20th birthday until November, and already possesses an NBA-ready frame. At 6-foot-10 with a long wingspan, Miller has the ideal makeup for a frontcourt player. Though, Miller is also an excellent playmaker for his size who can get up-and-down the floor with ease.
Atlanta’s roster is stacked with a staggering amount of talent. There isn’t one particular position they need to target, allowing them to go any number of ways. Miller works here because he brings something different to the table than the other bigs currently on the Hawks roster. As we’ve seen in this postseason, having a malleable team that can attack defenses in different ways is paramount to playoff success.
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16. Utah Jazz (from MIN) — Jett Howard, G, Michigan
Jett Howard is one of the more intriguing prospects on the board. The son of Michigan head coach Juwan Howard, Jett is a jumbo guard (6-foot-8) with the potential to fill a number of roles. For the Wolverines, Howard does a bit of everything as he’s a more than capable shooter who has shown the ability to create.
While Howard isn’t an explosive athlete, he uses his size well and is deliberate with his movements. Being the son of a former NBA player, Howard has great poise and feel for a freshman. In all likelihood, his stock will only increase as we get closer to the draft. Sons of former players have had a strong track record recently, and Howard is a legit wing with shooting and playmaking chops.
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17. Los Angeles Lakers — Jordan Hawkins, G, Connecticut
UConn’s Jordan Hawkins declared for the draft after lighting up nets throughout the entire NCAA Tournament. Helping lead his Huskies to a National Championship, Hawkins was college basketball’s most dangerous deadeye. The 6-foot-5 wing has a picture-perfect jumpshot which he can launch from anywhere on the floor. Hawkins excels coming off screens and getting into his shooting motion quickly, not allowing defenders to contest with a high release point.
Shooters are always at a premium in today’s league, and that is especially true for a team that employs LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Hawkins can provide the spacing LA’s two stars need to operate, and will torch defenses when they commit to stopping James or Davis.
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18. Miami Heat — Jalen Hood-Schifino, G, Indiana
Indiana basketball had its best season in years thanks in large part to freshman sensation Jalen Hood-Schifino. A savvy combo guard with a strong frame, Hood-Schifino is bit reminiscent of Jamal Murray coming out of college. Both players have a similar frame — Hood-Schifino might be an inch or two taller — and excel at hunting mid-range jumpers out of the pick-and-roll.
Miami will likely be in the market for a guard very soon. Gabe Vincent — the team’s starting point guard during its playoff run — is projected to be lured away in free agency this Summer. Kyle Lowry is also a name that may be on the move via trade. Hood-Schifino has the sort of toughness that several Heat players already possess, and he’s got the size and build to hold up defensively on the perimeter.
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19. Golden State Warriors — Kris Murray, F, Iowa
Kris Murray’s ascent into becoming a potential lottery pick was a tad predictable. The Iowa native was limited in what he could do for a stacked Hawkeyes team last year. Of course, those Hawkeyes were led by Kris’ older brother, Keegan, who now plays for the Sacramento Kings. With Keegan gone, Kris stepped into a more prominent role and showcased what he was always capable of.
Murray was a double-double machine for the Hawkeyes while providing efficient scoring numbers. His shooting splits finished near 50/40/80 and he was one of the best rebounders in the nation. The Warriors have taken some chances on high-upside prospects (James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga, and Patrick Baldwin Jr.) in recent years, but Murray is the kind of player who could instantly help a team looking to make another championship push.
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20. Houston Rockets (from LAC) — Dereck Lively, C, Duke
Many have pegged Lively as the No. 2 big man in the class behind likely top pick Victor Wembanyama. Standing at 7-foot-1, his clear top strength is protecting the rim at a very high level. He’s also possessing a springy frame. Lively isn’t plodding when running the floor. On the contrary — he can flip his hips and turn well when transitioning down the floor.
We don’t know if he’ll ever turn out to be a dominant post scorer. Like most young big men, Lively needs to become more polished on that end. With that said, if he continues to perfect a newfound three-point shot, you could be looking at the athletic new-age version of Brook Lopez.
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21. Brooklyn Nets (from PHX) — Dariq Whitehead, F, Duke
Next to Dereck Lively and perhaps Kyle Filipowski, Dariq Whitehead is the most ballyhooed recruit who attended Duke last season. He’s got perfect two-guard size at 6-foot-6, 195 pounds. He’s a multi-level scorer — possessing the ability to shoot it from deep, post up smaller players, and also get to the rim.
While Whitehead was limited due to injury as a freshman, his skill level is apparent. He’s the type of two-way talent teams will look to roll the dice on at this point in the draft. The Nets are just the team to take a chance on a high-profile prospect right here. With Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving gone, Brooklyn doesn’t look to contend anytime soon. As such, Whitehead would get ample time to develop under HC Jacque Vaughn.
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22. Brooklyn Nets (from PHI) — GG Jackson, F, South Carolina
This is a player many are excited about. Jackson reclassified in order to play in college a year early. He shocked everyone by spurning North Carolina in favor of…South Carolina! Jackson’s freshman campaign could have gone better, but the talent around him was less than stellar. He struggled from the field, and didn’t flash much in the way of playmaking. However, this is a young player who could potentially boom with the right development.
The 6-foot-6 forward won’t turn 19 until later this year, and oozes upside. Jackson is an isolation-based jumbo forward. He’s adept at getting to the basket with his sizable frame or stretching out defenses with a workable outside jumper. With the second of their first round picks, the Nets add a quality player who can crack their frontcourt rotation.
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23. Portland Trail Blazers (from NYK) — Bilal Couilbaly, F, France
As we touched on earlier, the Blazers are in an interesting spot. Not to often does a team with a player as talented as Damian Lillard get to draft so early — let alone posses two first-round picks. If the idea is still to build a contender in the present, adding to their wing depth seems like the logical move. France’s Bilal Coulibaly is a prospect on the rise due to his two-way upside. Possessing excellent length and defensive instincts, Coulibaly can be a disruptor at the point of attack as well as in the passing lanes. If his jumpshot stabilizes, you’re looking at a potentially devastating 3-and-D player.
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24. Sacramento Kings — Jaime Jaquez Jr., F, UCLA
One of the best upperclassmen in the country, Jaime Jaquez Jr. has starred for Mick Cronin’s Bruins over the last three seasons. Though he could have potentially been a first-round pick last year, Jaquez opted to return for his senior year to further bolster his stock. Jaquez was debilitated by foot injuries throughout the ’22 campaign, which likely caused a sharp dip in his three-point percentage (.276 down from .394 the previous year).
He’s a good wing defender with playmaking chops who isn’t afraid of physicality down low. In fact, Jaquez seemingly seeks out contact and thrives in the paint. If he shoots well during workouts he could be a top-20 pick. Instead, we have him falling to the Kings and savvy GM Monte McNair. The Kings desperately need more size on the wing, and Jaquez would be a nice addition to a group that already includes Keegan Murray, Kevin Huerter and Harrison Barnes.
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25. Memphis Grizzlies — Julian Phillips, F, Tennessee
After a colorful recruitment featuring various big-time programs, Phillips ended up signing with Rick Barnes and the Tennessee Volunteers. He’s yet another big 6-foot-8 wing with nice upside. As it currently stands, Phillips could be headed for a career as a 3-and-D guy. He can run the floor very well in transition. However, Phillips still isn’t super comfortable when isolated as a scorer.
While Phillips likely could have used another year of development, teams will certainly be excited to get their hands on the athletic 19-year-old now. He could be in line for a G-League stint (or two), but he has All-Defensive upside if everything clicks.
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26. Indiana Pacers (from CLE) — Bobi Klintman, F, Wake Forest
The Swedish-born Bobi Klintman is a tantalizing prospect who could be an instant difference-maker on the defensive end. After a rather quiet season at Wake Forest, Klintman opted for the draft following his freshman year. Then, the 6-foot-10 wing surprised everyone when he pulled out of the draft combine. That has led many to speculate a team could have already made a promise to the 20-year-old.
The Pacers are deep at wing, but could use some more size upfront. Jalen Smith was a nice find, but the team is a bit thin at power forward. It’s clear that Myles Turner is sticking around for the time-being, and finding more options that can configure next to him is a good idea. Klintman adds a speed dimension that they’ll need since Turner will likely be parked near the basket. In transition, Klintman would be the perfect running mate next to extraordinary playmaker Tyrese Haliburton.
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27. Charlotte Hornets (from DEN) — Sidy Cissoko, F, France
Having selected Brandon Miller earlier in the draft, the Hornets must continue to find role players to fill its roster. When you have somebody like Miller and 21-year-old All-Star LaMelo Ball, it’s more about finding players that fit rather than taking the best player on the board.
Sidy Cissoko could end up being one of the best role players in the draft — but also has some upside to be even better. He’s a great defender who already possesses an NBA-ready body (6-foot-6, 225 pounds). Cissoko gave it his all defensively for the G-League Ignite last season, and was also a fairly good passer who can serve as a connector offensively.
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28. Utah Jazz (from PHI) — Chris Livingston, F, Kentucky
Expect Chris Livingston to garner a ton of hype as the draft approaches. The five-star Wildcat checks all of the boxes for potential NBA wings. He has exceptional size (6-foot-6) with a strong build (220 pounds). Livingston thrives transition where he is a smooth athlete who gets up-and-down the floor well.
He wasn’t asked to create much for Kentucky’s offense, but he’s shown a knack for getting to the basket. Though his shooting numbers have been inconsistent, he already has great form and range which stretches beyond the NBA three-point line. Think Atlanta’s DeAndre Hunter with a bit more on-the-ball capability.
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29. Indiana Pacers (from BOS) — Rayan Rupert, G, New Zealand Breakers
At 6-foot-6 with a monstrous 7-foot-3 wingspan, France’s Rayan Rupert is oozing potential. Rupert could instantly become a standout defender given his height and length. Players with that kind of size are always at a premium given how difficult it has become to defend star wings. There is plenty that Rupert has to work on, but the benefit in drafting him is that he is one of the youngest players in the entire pool. Rupert won’t turn 19 until days before the 2023 NBA Draft. That could be an incentive to take a chance on the Breakers’ wing.
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30. Los Angeles Clippers (from MIL) — Jalen Wilson, F, Kansas
Jalen Wilson was given a chance to star for the defending champion Jayhawks following the departure of several of his former teammates. With Ochai Agbaji and Christian Braun leaving for the NBA and David McCormack and Remy Martin graduating, Wilson became the veteran for the defending champion Kansas Jayhawks. The Texas native played well in this role, setting career-highs across the board.
Among the top scorers and rebounders in the Big 12, Wilson has a nose for the ball and is constantly putting pressure on opposing defenses. If his shooting continues to improve (like it already has), Wilson should have no trouble finding an NBA home.
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The 30 Greatest Three-Point Shooters in NBA History
30. Jamal Crawford
Three-pointers made: 2,220 (10th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 6,377
Three-point percentage: 34.8%
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Crawford’s flashy dribbles would lack substance without a consistent jump-shot to pair it with. The 19-year veteran averaged at least one made three per game since his second season in the NBA. Crawford walked into any arena ready to shoot. His fancy ball handling has fooled countless defenders, and all Crawford needs is a little bit of space to get his high release jumper off. The eighth pick in the 2000 NBA Draft holds the all-time record for most career four-point plays with 55.
29. Jason Kapono
Three-pointers made: 457
Three-pointers attempted: 1,054
Three-point percentage: 43.4%
Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images
UCLA’s all-time leader in three-point percentage was a three-point specialist during his nine-year career that included stops in Miami, Toronto and Philadelphia. One of the most impressive three-point contestants we’ve ever seen, Kapono won the event in back-to-back years with scores of 24 and 25 out of a possible 30. Having only averaged 6.7 points per game throughout his career, Kapono is the prime example of not having to be a great overall player to be a great shooter.
28. Chauncey Billups
Three-pointers made: 1,830 (22nd all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,725
Three-point percentage: 38.7%
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Mr. Big Shot didn’t earn his nickname without hitting a few (hundred) timely three-point shots. From 2002-2009 (the entirety of Billups’ tenure with the Pistons), nobody made more postseason threes than Billups. During that span, Billups made 242 threes — 72 more than second place (Manu Ginobili). Instead of relying on elite athleticism, Billups utilized a crafty dribble and a deadly outside jump-shot to overwhelm his opponents.
27. Paul Pierce
Three-pointers made: 2,143 (12th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,816
Three-point percentage: 36.8%
Image Source: Brian Babineau/GETTY Images
Pierce proved that great shooters don’t always need the prettiest of looking shots. The Celtics legend utilized more of a push shot to knock down the 2,143 threes he made during his career. Always a great scorer, Pierce didn’t start gaining notoriety as a shooter until Boston formed “The Big Three.” In the trio’s four full seasons together, Pierce made 1.6 threes per game at a 38.7-percent clip. In 2010, Pierce won All-Star weekend’s Three-Point contest, beating out a field that included a rookie named Stephen Curry.
26. Jason Terry
Three-pointers made: 2,282 (8th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 6,010
Three-point percentage: 38.0%
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Sadly for basketball fans, we no longer get to see The Jet bust out his signature celebration. A career journeyman, Terry’s most heralded stop was his eight-year run with the Dallas Mavericks. It was there that Terry won the Sixth Man of the Year award. He also capped off a brilliant playoff run with the franchise’s first championship ring in 2011. During that postseason, Terry made a ridiculous 44.2 percent of his threes, which included a white-hot 9-for-10 performance against the Lakers that ultimately sent the defending champs home packing.
25. Kevin Durant
Three-pointers made: 1,863 (21st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,841
Three-point percentage: 38.5%
Image Source: Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports
Durant would have been a great basketball player even if he were born 6-feet tall, but that extra length sure does help. Defenders are helpless once Durant decides to raise up and shoot. Not only is he an accurate marksman from well beyond 30-feet, but his high release coupled with his spider-like arms render any form of contest useless. His abilities don’t dwindle down the stretch either, as proven by his clutch triples at the end of Game 3 in both the 2017 and 2018 NBA Finals.
24. Joe Johnson
Three-pointers made: 1,978 (17th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,331
Three-point percentage: 37.1%
Image Source: Troy Taormina/USA TODAY Sports
Before he became “Iso Joe”, Johnson was the designated sharpshooter for Mike D’Antoni’s “Seven Seconds or Less” Suns. In 2005, Johnson’s last year in Phoenix, he knocked down a league leading 47.8 percent of his threes. Johnson took on a bigger role offensively once he joined the Atlanta Hawks, forcing a minimal dip in his efficiency. In 2013, Johnson showed off his marksmanship by knocking down eight three-pointers in a single quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers.
23. Michael Redd
Three-pointers made: 1,045
Three-pointers attempted: 2,751
Three-point percentage: 38.0%
Image Source: Gary Dineen/GETTY Images
The sweet-shooting lefty from Ohio State came into the league firing. By the time he was a full-time starter (Year 3), Redd was already hoisting 6.5 threes per 36 minutes — a number that closely resembles what you would see in today’s game. A 2004 NBA All-Star, Redd had the ability to get his shot off whenever he liked due to a lighting-fast release. Had it not been for a series of unfortunate injuries, Redd’s name would be much higher in the record books.
22. Mike Miller
Three-pointers made: 1,590 (36th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 3,910
Three-point percentage: 40.7%
Image Source: Jesse D. Garrabrant/Getty Images
The 2001 NBA Rookie of The Year reinvented himself as a player on several occasions, but the most effective version of Miller was when he was shooting the basketball from the outside. 22nd all-time in three-pointers made and 23rd in percentage is the reason Miller was able to sustain his level of play for the seven different franchises he played for. And if you can make a three on one shoe like Miller infamously did in the 2014 NBA Finals, you deserve a spot on this list.
21. J.R. Smith
Three-pointers made: 1,930 (19th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,178
Three-point percentage: 37.3%
Image Source: Geoff Burke/USA TODAY Sports
Smith’s picture-perfect release should be used by shooting coaches for the rest of time. The enigmatic star is one of the streakiest players to ever play in the NBA, and when Smith has it going, he can become virtually unstoppable from beyond the arc. After seeing his athleticism dwindle during stops in New Orleans, Denver and New York, Smith joined a contending Cavaliers team in hopes of providing an outside shooting threat for LeBron James. His most memorable moment in his four seasons as a Cav may have come in Year 1 when he went 8-of-12 from three in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals against the 60-win Atlanta Hawks.
20. Allan Houston
Three-pointers made: 1,305
Three-pointers attempted: 3,247
Three-point percentage: 40.2%
Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images
Houston could fill up the score-sheet in a hurry, and the three-point shot was his most efficient weapon. A career 40 percent shooter from downtown, Houston was the best outside scorer for the Knicks during their deep playoff runs in the 90’s.
19. Dirk Nowitzki
Three-pointers made: 1,982 (16th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,210
Three-point percentage: 38.0%
Image Source: Tim Heitman/USA TODAY Sports
Standing at just about 7-feet tall, Nowitzki is widely considered the greatest big man shooter to ever grace the court. Nowitzki’s high release point and deep range has given defenders fits since he’s been in the league. While he does a majority of his work from the mid-range, his three-point shot is what separates him from the rest of the power forwards in the league.
18. Jeff Hornacek
Three-pointers made: 828
Three-pointers attempted: 2,055
Three-point percentage: 40.3%
Image Source: Rocky Widner/Getty Images
New York’s former head coach was also a dead-eye shooter during his career that spanned 14 seasons. Hornacek flirted with the 50-40-90 club on several occasions, and was consistently near the top of the league leaders in three-point percentage. Getting open looks from greats like John Stockton, Karl Malone, Tom Chambers and Kevin Johnson helps, but you still have to make the shot, which Hornacek did time and time again.
17. Mitch Richmond
Three-pointers made: 1,326
Three-pointers attempted: 3,419
Three-point percentage: 38.8%
Image Source: Focus On Sport/Getty Images
There’s something to be said for a player that is efficient from three while being the number one scoring option on his team. Richmond was a prolific scorer from every spot on the court, but when teams were worried about him getting to the basket, he burned them from the outside. He could create for himself, come off screens, or fire away in transition. In his heyday, Richmond could do it all, and was one of the best three-point bombers in the league.
16. Chris Mullin
Three-pointers made: 815
Three-pointers attempted: 2,120
Three-point percentage: 38.4%
Image Source: Brian Drake/Getty Images
Richmond was great, but not even considered the best shooter of the famed Run-TMC trio. That distinction would belong to Mullin, a sweet-shooting lefty that could get his shot off whenever he wanted to. A lightning quick release accompanied with deep range made Mullin a tough guard each and every night. He didn’t attempt many due to his skills in other areas, but when Mullin started heating up from the outside, he could put up points in bunches.
15. Mark Price
Three-pointers made: 976
Three-pointers attempted: 2,428
Three-point percentage: 40.2%
Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images
Price regularly lit up scoreboards throughout his illustrious career. The longtime Cleveland point guard paved the way for guards that could fill up stat sheets in a number of ways, and he was able to do that because of the threat of his outside shot. Although it looks rather pedestrian compared to the numbers we see today, at the time, Price was hoisting a high-volume of three point shots and converting on a comparably efficient clip. Also one of the best free-throw shooters in league history, Price was automatic from all spots on the floor.
14. Craig Hodges
Three-pointers made: 563
Three-pointers attempted: 1,408
Three-point percentage: 40.0%
Image Source: Andrew D. Bernstein/Getty Images
An impressive 3-time NBA three-point contest winner, Hodges is arguably the most overlooked shooter in recent history. Equipped with a funky jump shot and short in stature, the former Chicago Bull dominated three-point contests in the early 90’s. He also wasn’t bad during actual games either, as he shot a solid 40 percent from the outside throughout his career. He wasn’t quite as prolific of a shooter as others on this list, but a three-peat in a contest that hosts the NBA’s best shooters justifies his place on this list.
13. Steve Kerr
Three-pointers made: 726
Three-pointers attempted: 1,599
Three-point percentage: 45.4%
Image Source: Rocky Widner/Getty Images
The NBA’s all-time leader in three-point percentage, Kerr used fortuitous situations and dead-eye shooting to build a great career. Playing with greats like Michael Jordan, Tim Duncan and Scottie Pippen was the perfect recipe for Kerr, as he was more of an off-guard than a point guard despite his smaller frame. Posting multiple seasons in which he shot better than 50 percent from the three-point line, Kerr played a big part in five separate NBA title runs.
12. Larry Bird
Three-pointers made: 649
Three-pointers attempted: 1,727
Three-point percentage: 37.6%
Image Source: Dick Raphael/Getty Images
One of the very best to ever play the game, Bird was just as good at shooting as we was at everything else on a basketball court. Known for his unorthodox form, Larry Legend was an impossible match-up because of the threat of his outside game. With three three-point shootout victories and countless clutch threes, Bird will be on this list for decades to come.
11. Glen Rice
Three-pointers made: 1,559 (41st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 3,896
Three-point percentage: 40.0%
Image Source: Andy Hayt/Getty Images
The smooth-shooting wing from Michigan currently ranks 23rd all-time in three pointers made and virtually only trails players that came into the league after he did. Rice was a trailblazer for the three-point shot in the 90’s and was the premier outside shooter for the majority of his career. His 6-foot-8 frame made it easier for him to get good looks over smaller defenders and his high release made him almost impossible to block. He paved the way for today’s brand of three-point focused basketball, showing the league just how effective it could be.
10. J.J. Redick
Three-pointers made: 1,950 (21st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,704
Three-point percentage: 41.5%
Image Source: Bill Streicher/USA TODAY Sports
One of the greatest to ever don a Blue Devil uniform, it took some time for Redick to adapt to the NBA game. He started off a bit shaky in Orlando, but found his footing and quickly evolved into one of the best knockdown shooters the game has ever seen. His shot is perfection, and should be featured on videotapes teaching young players how to shoot for the rest of time. What truly separates him though is how effective he is off the ball, a necessary trait for any great shooter. With an unlimited gas tank, quick feet, and deadly range, J.J. Redick carved out an impressive career for himself.
9. Dale Ellis
Three-pointers made: 1,719 (28th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,266
Three-point percentage: 40.3%
Image Source: Jonathan Daniel/Stringer/Getty Images
Arguably the best pure shooter of the 80’s, Ellis was an absolute nightmare to defend on the perimeter. Quick as a hiccup and a high release point gave Ellis the edge en route to over 1,700 total three-pointers made. His best season came in 1989 when he converted 162 threes at just under a 48 percent clip – an impressive season from an efficiency/volume perspective by any era’s standards.
8. Kyle Korver
Three-pointers made: 2,450 (5th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,715
Three-point percentage: 42.9%
Image Source: Kyle Terada/USA TODAY Sports
With each passing year, somehow, some way, Korver continued to get better. Seemingly ageless, Korver torched teams from the outside for more than a decade as a relentless floor spacer. His true breakout season was in 2015, when he hit 221 threes at a remarkable 49 percent clip – a level of proficiency we may never see again. Sitting fifth all-time in made threes, Perhaps Korver’s greatest proof of his efficiency can be found in the fact that he has the 5th most made three-pointers all-time, but sits 11th in attempts.
7. Klay Thompson
Three-pointers made: 2,213 (11th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 5,317
Three-point percentage: 41.6%
Image Source: Ken Blaze/USA TODAY Sports
The second Splash Brother doesn’t always get the credit he deserves, but when he gets hot from beyond the arc, everybody tunes in. His picture perfect release should be enshrined on its own merits one day, and has helped him to some huge moments – a 60-point performance against the Pacers in 2016 and a 37-point third quarter outburst against the Kings in 2015. He can come off screens or shoot off the bounce, and rarely has to set his feet to make it a good shot. Even after a two-year run plagued by career-threatening injuries, Klay has come back stronger than ever to form the perfect tandem with Steph.
6. Dražen Petrović
Three-pointers made: 255
Three-pointers attempted: 583
Three-point percentage: 43.7%
Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images
A career cut short due to an unfortunate car crash, Petrović could have been the owner of every NBA three-point record. A European basketball sensation, Petrović blazed the trail for international players by joining the NBA. He was able to showcase his skills to the league and to the world in his two impressive seasons with the Nets. The Croatian was able to catch the eye of all-time great Reggie Miller, who has stated on numerous occasions that Petrović was the best shooter he’s ever faced. That sort of high praise from one of the best shooters ever has to count for something.
5. Peja Stojaković
Three-pointers made: 1,760 (26th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 4,392
Three-point percentage: 40.1%
Image Source: Rocky Widner/Getty Images
Central Europe really has made some of the greatest shooters we’ve ever seen, but none better than the 6-foot-9 Croatian, Peja Stojaković. Stojaković’s sharpshooting skills were evident from his early years in Sacramento. He was an excellent foul shooter, automatic from inside the line, and an absolute sniper from beyond the arc. Teams changed the way they looked at wing players after Stojaković’s success with the Kings. Had he been born a few years later, his game would have translated perfectly to today’s style of play.
4. Steve Nash
Three-pointers made: 1,685 (30th all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 3,939
Three-point percentage: 42.8%
Image Source: Christian Petersen/Getty Images
A premium card member of the 50-40-90 club, Nash is one of the best all-around shooters we’ve ever seen. As good from the free-throw line as he was behind the arc, Nash was a great scorer that didn’t get as much credit as he deserved because of how great of a playmaker he was. Consistently among the league’s best in three-point shooting percentage, the future Hall of Famer made a career out of his excellent vision and exceptional ability to shoot the basketball.
3. Reggie Miller
Three-pointers made: 2,560 (2nd all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 6,486
Three-point percentage: 39.5%
Image Source: Nathaniel S. Butler/Getty Images
One of the league’s all-time great clutch shooters, Miller almost always seemed to come through when the game was on the line. Miller’s jump-shot wasn’t exactly what they teach you in the textbooks – his elbow was flared out, he landed differently every time, and his release almost looked like he let it go with both hands. However, there’s no arguing the fact that it worked just fine for him. Sitting at No. 2 all-time for three-pointers made, Miller made a career for himself hitting big time shots from the outside.
2. Ray Allen
Three-pointers made: 2,973 (2nd all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 7,429
Three-point percentage: 40.0%
Image Source: Kent Smith/Getty Images
Allen truly did it all on the court, from defending top perimeter players to finishing around the basket in traffic. But no matter how impressive of an all-around player Allen was, the most significant trait he will always be remembered for was his beautiful jump shot. If you search “Ray Allen” on any platform, the first page of results will be littered with clutch threes he made throughout his career. His biggest moment was undoubtedly the three he made that sent Game 6 of the 2014 NBA Finals into overtime, and is truly the microcosm of his phenomenal career.
1. Stephen Curry
Three-pointers made: 3,390 (1st all-time)
Three-pointers attempted: 7,329
Three-point percentage: 42.8%
Image Source: Kelley L. Cox/USA TODAY Sports
Steph has eliminated any and all arguments. He is the greatest shooter the game has ever seen, and it’s not particularly close. For comparisons sake, Reggie Miller never averaged three three-pointers per game over an entire season. Steph has averaged four or more three pointers in eight of his last nine seasons. Strictly combining the 2015 and 2016 seasons, Curry made 688 threes combined, which is more than Bird made in his entire 13-year career (649). You can say what you want about the era he plays in, or the team around him, but you can’t argue his brilliance. We’ve never seen anything like Curry, and we may never again. Just appreciate it.