By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
We all knew that Steph Curry is the best shooter in NBA history and the numbers are proving it without any doubt. The Golden State Warriors star guard became the all-time leader in 3-pointers against the Knicks, passing Hall of Famer Ray Allen by knocking down the 2,974th of his career.
With 7 minutes, 33 seconds left in the first quarter Curry made the record-breaking shot. Just after that his team fouled and called a time-out so they could enjoy the moment.
Curry took the ball and handed it to his father, Dell, on the floor as the Madison Square Garden crowd gave him a rousing standing ovation. Curry went back toward center court a few moments later to get a hug and congratulations from Ray Allen who was also present in the arena.
“I’ve been thinking about this number for a long time. I’ve even got it on my shoes,” Curry said on TNT. “Basketball history. This is pretty special. These two, legends. I watched them growing up and understood what it meant to shoot the ball because of them and my dad. Full-circle moment, man. I’m blessed. Blessed, for sure.”
NBA commissioner Adam Silver congratulated Curry in a statement released during the game.
“It was thrilling to see Steph break the NBA’s all-time record for three-pointers,” Silver said. “He has revolutionized the way the game is played and continues to leave fans in awe with his amazing artistry and extraordinary shooting ability. We congratulate him on this historic achievement.”
Curry finished 5-of-14 from 3-point range, bringing his career total to 2,978. He had 22 points in the Warriors’ 105-96 win.
Both Allen and Reggie Miller, who were broadcasting the game for Turner Sports, attended Curry’s record-breaking performance Tuesday night. The trio shared a few words and a group hug before the game, enjoying the excitement surrounding the inevitable historical moment.
“What he’s done has just completely redefined what’s a good shot,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “Redefined the point guard position, in terms of what’s expected. You can see a whole generation of young players who are playing the game the way Steph does, with shooting range and handle, all kinds of skill and joy. It’s amazing how much he’s impacted the game both strategically and artistically.”