History doesn’t always come with fireworks—but sometimes, it arrives with a quiet swish and a two-word text that echoes across the basketball world.
Klay Thompson, now donning a Dallas Mavericks jersey but forever etched in Golden State lore, has officially drained his 2,805th career three-pointer—surpassing Damian Lillard to become the fourth-highest three-point shooter in NBA history . The milestone is more than just a number; it’s a testament to resilience, precision, and the enduring legacy of one half of the legendary “Splash Brothers.”
And when news broke of the achievement, his longtime backcourt partner, Stephen Curry—the undisputed king of the three-ball—didn’t need a speech. His Instagram comment said it all: “So proud.” Two words. But for anyone who’s followed their journey, those words carry the weight of a decade of shared glory, grueling rehab, and mutual respect.
Table of Contents
- Klay Thompson’s Climb Up the 3-Point Ladder
- The Significance of Klay Thompson 3-Pointers in NBA History
- From Golden State to Dallas: A New Chapter
- Curry’s Two-Word Message and the Splash Brothers Legacy
- Where Does Klay Stand Among the Greats?
- Conclusion
- Sources
Klay Thompson’s Climb Up the 3-Point Ladder
Reaching 2,805 career three-pointers is no small feat—especially for a player who missed two full seasons (2019–2021) due to a torn ACL and a ruptured Achilles tendon . Many wondered if he’d ever return to elite form. Yet, Klay didn’t just come back—he kept shooting, kept scoring, and kept climbing.
His journey up the all-time list has been methodical:
- He passed Jason Terry (2,282) in 2022.
- He overtook Kyle Korver (2,450) in early 2023.
- He leapfrogged James Harden (2,776) during the 2024–25 season.
- And now, with a deep triple against the Portland Trail Blazers, he’s moved past Damian Lillard (2,804) into sole possession of fourth place .
What makes Klay’s mark even more impressive is his efficiency. He holds the NBA record for most threes in a single game (14) and is renowned for his catch-and-shoot mastery—a skill that remains lethal even as he approaches age 36.
The Significance of Klay Thompson 3-Pointers in NBA History
The three-point shot has revolutionized basketball over the last 15 years, and few have shaped that revolution like Klay Thompson. Alongside Curry, he didn’t just shoot threes—he redefined spacing, defensive schemes, and offensive philosophy across the league.
While Curry is the engine of volume and range, Klay was the silent assassin—the player defenses couldn’t leave for a split second. His ability to go nuclear in short bursts (remember his 37-point quarter?) made him the ultimate complementary superstar. As ESPN analyst Zach Lowe once noted, “Klay turned off-ball movement into an art form” .
Now, with his name permanently among the NBA’s greatest shooters, Klay’s impact extends beyond championships (he has four rings with Golden State). He’s a blueprint for the modern shooting guard—one who can defend, move without the ball, and deliver in clutch moments.
From Golden State to Dallas: A New Chapter
Klay’s move to the Mavericks in 2025 marked the end of an era. After 13 seasons with the Warriors, he joined Luka Dončić in Dallas, seeking a fresh start and a new chance at contention. Some feared his role would diminish, but instead, he’s thrived as a floor-spacer and veteran leader.
Ironically, it was in a Mavericks uniform that he passed Lillard—a poetic twist given Lillard’s own recent team change to Milwaukee. The NBA is cyclical, but greatness transcends jerseys. As Klay told reporters post-game: “This record belongs to everyone who believed in me—my family, my teammates, and the fans who never stopped cheering” .
Curry’s Two-Word Message and the Splash Brothers Legacy
Stephen Curry’s “So proud” comment wasn’t just fan service—it was a brother acknowledging a brother. Their partnership from 2011 to 2024 defined a dynasty. Together, they popularized the three-point barrage, won four titles, and changed how the game is played globally.
Even after Klay’s departure, their bond remains unshaken. Curry has repeatedly praised Klay’s professionalism and work ethic, while Klay credits Curry for pushing him to elevate his game daily. Their synergy was so potent that the term “Splash Brothers” entered the NBA lexicon as shorthand for unstoppable shooting duos [INTERNAL_LINK:greatest-nba-duos-of-all-time].
In an age of social media bravado, their quiet mutual admiration stands out—a reminder that true greatness often speaks softly.
Where Does Klay Stand Among the Greats?
With 2,805 threes, Klay now sits behind only:
- Stephen Curry (~4,000+ and counting)
- Ray Allen (2,973)
- James Harden (2,950+)
Can he catch Ray Allen? At his current pace (roughly 180 threes per season), it’s possible—if he stays healthy through 2026. But even if he doesn’t, his place in the pantheon is secure. Unlike many volume shooters, Klay’s threes came in high-stakes environments: playoffs, Finals, All-Star games. His shot wasn’t just prolific—it was consequential.
As the NBA’s official history page notes, “Thompson’s combination of defense and shooting made him a prototype for the modern two-way wing” .
Conclusion
Klay Thompson’s ascent to fourth on the all-time Klay Thompson 3-pointers list is more than a statistical milestone—it’s a victory of perseverance over adversity. From devastating injuries to team transitions, he’s remained true to his craft. And in a beautiful full-circle moment, it’s his former teammate and forever brother Stephen Curry who offers the simplest, most powerful tribute: “So proud.” In those two words lies the heart of a legacy that will inspire shooters for generations to come.
Sources
[1] Times of India. “Stephen Curry’s 2-word message as Klay passes Lillard on 3s list”. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nba/top-stories/stephen-curry-pens-encouraging-two-word-message-as-klay-thompson-passes-damian-lillard-for-fourth-on-all-time-3-pointers-list/articleshow/126587896.cms
[2] NBA.com. “Klay Thompson Injury Timeline”.
[3] ESPN. “How the Splash Brothers Changed Basketball Forever”.
[4] Dallas Morning News. “Klay Thompson reacts to passing Lillard on 3-point list”.
[5] NBA Official Website. “NBA History: Greatest Shooters”. https://www.nba.com/history