Dale Ellis
Three-pointers made: 1,719 (17th all-time) Three-pointers attempted: 4,266 Three-point percentage: 40.3% Many believe that he was the most excellent pure shooter of the 80s, it was almost impossible to defend Dale Ellis on the perimeter. Lightning-quick reflexes and a high release point, helped Ellis reach a total of over 1,700 three-pointers.
His greatest season took place in 1989, in which he converted 162 threes at just under a 48 percent clip. That season is still incredible, even when compared to the biggest players who have been around since.
Glen Rice
Three-pointers made: 1,559 (23rd all-time) Three-pointers attempted: 3,896 Three-point percentage: 40.0% During his time with the University of Michigan Wolverines, Rice became the school’s all-time scorer and scored a record-setting 184 points in tournament play, a record which he still holds. When he moved on to the NBA, he was the premier outside shooter for most of his career.
His 6-foot-8 frame helped him get good looks over shorter defenders, and his high release made him extremely difficult to block. He was a trailblazer for the new kind of three-point focused basketball currently being played, showcasing just how well it works on the court. Rice is currently ranked 23rd all-time in three-pointers, mostly behind players that came after him.
J.J. Redick
Three-pointers made: 1,464 (30th all-time) Three-pointers attempted: 3,524 Three-point percentage: 41.5% J.J Redick made a name for himself and won over a lot of fans when he was playing for the Blue Devils. He had a rough start in the NBA in Orlando, but soon adapted and became one of the best shooters around. His shots are textbook examples of perfection and should be used as an inspiration for young players everywhere.
However, what makes Redick unique are his skills off the ball, which are extremely important for all expert shooters. J.J. Redick has used his incredible stamina, quick moves, and a fantastic range to create an extraordinary career and legacy for himself.
Kyle Korver
Three-pointers made: 2,213 (4th all-time) Three-pointers attempted: 5,130 Three-point percentage: 43.1% Unlike most basketball players, time seems not to affect Kyle Korver, and he just keeps getting better and better. He has been beating teams from the outside for over ten years, and it doesn’t look like he’s going anywhere anytime soon.
Korver is known for his efficiency, with a career standing of 43 percent clip from behind the line. Although he began playing in the NBA in 2003, his breakout season in 2015 had him hitting 221 threes with an incredible 49 percent clip. Many believe that it will be impossible to reach those numbers again.
Klay Thompson
Three-pointers made: 1,557 (24th all-time) Three-pointers attempted: 3,691 Three-point percentage: 42.2% The other “Splash Brother” does not always get the recognition he deserves, but when he is shooting from the outside, he still provides an incredible show. Thompson is known for his perfect release, which has led him to some truly unforgettable moments, including a 60-point performance against the Pacers in 2016 and a 37-point third-quarter outburst against the Kings in 2015.
Thompson can come off screens or shoot off the bounce and doesn’t usually have to set his feet to make a good shot. He even manages to do all that and still defend against the rival team’s best perimeter player, which makes Klay a top contender for one of the top five places on this list before he retires.