The explosion in three-point shooting ushered in by Stephen Curry, alongside fellow splash bro Klay Thompson, has revolutionized the game of basketball over the past decade. The Golden State Warriors proved that a team could win championships by relying heavily on perimeter shooting, leading to a league-wide shift towards a more three-point oriented style of play. This shift has resulted in players across the NBA setting new records and pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible on the basketball court.
One unexpected outcome of this three-point revolution is the fact that Draymond Green, known more for his defense and playmaking than his shooting, has now surpassed legendary shooter Larry Bird on the all-time three-pointers made list. Green, who has played his entire career in an era where three-point shooting is more prevalent than ever, has managed to outpace Bird, a player renowned for his shooting prowess and pure stroke.
Larry Bird, a three-time winner of the NBA’s annual three-point contest and a three-time league MVP, was one of the most feared shooters of his era. Known for his trash-talking and clutch shooting, Bird was a dominant force on the court. However, in a time when the three-point shot was not as heavily emphasized as it is today, Bird’s statistics in this area do not reflect his true shooting ability.
Green’s rise up the all-time three-pointers made list is a testament to the evolution of the game and the changing trends in basketball strategy. While Bird’s legacy as one of the greatest shooters of all time remains intact, Green’s accomplishment highlights the impact of the three-point revolution on the NBA. With Green shooting over 43 percent from behind the arc this season, it is likely that he will continue to climb the ranks and surpass even more shooters in the years to come.
In the end, both Bird and Green are products of their respective eras, each excelling in their own unique way. While Green may never match Bird’s overall impact on the game, his ability to adapt and thrive in the modern era of basketball is a testament to his skill and versatility. As the NBA continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how players like Green continue to push the boundaries of what is possible on the basketball court.
