Stephen Curry redefines greatness: the first to 4,000 three-pointers

Pranjal Chandra | Mar 15, 2025, 23:07 IST
Stephen Curry redefines greatness: the first to 4,000 three-pointers
Stephen Curry makes history by becoming the first NBA player to reach 4,000 three-pointers. His game-changing style and deep-range shooting have revolutionized basketball, inspiring a new generation of players and redefining modern offensive strategies.
Stephen Curry has spent his career rewriting the rules of basketball. His deep-range shooting, unparalleled accuracy, and game-changing style have shaped the modern NBA. Now, the Golden State Warriors’ superstar has added another unprecedented milestone to his legendary resume: becoming the first player in NBA history to make 4,000 three-pointers.

The historic shot came on Thursday night against the Sacramento Kings at the Chase Center, just one day before his 37th birthday. Off a pass from teammate Moses Moody, Curry drained a right-wing three-pointer with 8:19 left in the third quarter—his fourth attempt of the game. The home crowd erupted in celebration, and a special tribute played on the arena’s big screen shortly after, featuring a message from former Warriors center Andris Biedrins, who assisted Curry’s very first NBA three-pointer in 2009.

A legacy built on the three-point revolution

Curry’s impact on the game extends far beyond personal accolades. He revolutionized how basketball is played, making deep shooting a primary offensive weapon rather than a novelty. From logo-range shots to quick-release daggers under heavy defensive pressure, his ability to shoot from anywhere on the floor has forced teams to rethink defensive strategies.

As Kings coach Doug Christie pointed out, Curry’s accomplishments are staggering: “Reggie Miller’s record once seemed untouchable. Now, we’re talking about 4,000. It’s unheard of.” Indeed, Curry has obliterated previous three-point milestones, surpassing Ray Allen’s long-standing record of 2,973 threes back in 2021.

His shooting prowess has inspired a generation of players, shifting the focus of basketball from dominating the paint to stretching the floor. Young athletes around the world now grow up practicing deep-range shots, hoping to emulate the player who changed everything.

The moment that defined the night

Curry entered the game needing just two three-pointers to reach the historic mark. He wasted little time, hitting his first from the left wing with 5:35 left in the first quarter. The energy in the building was palpable as fans eagerly anticipated the record-breaking shot.

After a few misses, the milestone moment finally arrived in the third quarter. As the ball swished through the net, Chase Center erupted in cheers. Every Warriors player had a special commemorative T-shirt waiting in their locker room to celebrate Curry’s achievement. Even head coach Steve Kerr couldn’t help but joke about his star’s endless milestones. “What’s next? 8,000 threes?” Kerr quipped.

For Curry, the celebration was about more than just numbers. “I had an emotional moment on the bench when I saw Andris’ message. That took me back to my rookie year. It’s crazy to think how far I’ve come.”

What’s next for the NBA’s greatest shooter?

Curry is showing no signs of slowing down. Now in his 16th NBA season, he recently became the 26th player in league history to score 25,000 career points. Despite occasional rest days to manage his knees, he remains as lethal as ever.

As of now, no active player is close to catching him. James Harden ranks second in all-time three-pointers with 3,127, while Damian Lillard follows with 2,794. Given Curry’s consistent output, he could push his record well beyond 5,000 threes before he calls it a career.

His influence goes beyond the stat sheet. The way he plays—with joy, creativity, and an unwavering belief in his shot—has redefined what’s possible on the basketball court. As Portland coach Chauncey Billups put it, “Steph is something we’ve never seen before. Watching him grow into this player has been incredible. He’s fun to watch, but not fun to coach against.”

As the Warriors continue their season, one thing is certain: Curry’s legacy is far from complete. His latest milestone is just another reminder that we are witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime talent who continues to push the boundaries of greatness. And if history is any indication, this won’t be the last record he shatters.

Contact
  • Times Internet Limited, FC - 6, Film City, Sector 16A, Noida - 201301
  • grievance@timesinternet.in

Copyright 2025 © Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved The TOI News. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service