Who Scored the Most Points in NBA 3-Point Contest History?

I remember sitting courtside during the 2018 NBA All-Star Weekend, watching Devin Booker put up that incredible 28-point performance in the three-point contest. The air was electric, the net barely moved as each shot swished through, and I found myself wondering—who actually holds the record for the most points in NBA three-point contest history? It’s one of those questions that seems simple but opens up a fascinating discussion about clutch shooting, consistency, and what it takes to perform under pressure. As someone who’s covered basketball for over a decade, I’ve always been drawn to these moments where individual brilliance takes center stage, especially in events designed purely to test skill.

The answer, for those who might not know, belongs to Stephen Curry. During the 2021 three-point contest in Atlanta, Curry put on an absolute masterclass, scoring 31 points in the final round. That’s right—31 points, breaking his own previous record and setting a new benchmark that seems almost untouchable. What made it even more impressive was how he did it: hitting shot after shot from the deep “mountain” rack, barely hesitating, his form perfect even under the bright lights and the pressure of competing against Mike Conley and Jayson Tatum. I’ve watched a lot of three-point contests over the years, but that performance was something else. It wasn’t just about the number; it was the rhythm, the confidence, the way he made it look effortless. Curry’s always had that rare ability to elevate in big moments, and this was no exception.

But let’s step back for a second and consider why this matters beyond just record books. In the NBA, shooting has evolved into arguably the most critical skill, and events like the three-point contest highlight how individual excellence can shape team strategies and even league-wide trends. I can’t help but draw a parallel to situations in other leagues, like the recent news about Reyes skipping the game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, which also comes with the possibility of TNT playing without injured big man Kelly Williams due to a sprained ankle and shooting guard Roger Pogoy (hamstring). When key players are out, teams often rely on their shooters to step up—much like how Curry’s record-setting performance underscores the value of having a reliable deep threat. In both cases, whether it’s an All-Star event or a regular-season game, the ability to score from distance can be a game-changer, compensating for gaps elsewhere on the roster.

Now, diving deeper into the question of who scored the most points in NBA three-point contest history, it’s not just about Curry’s 31 points. The history of this contest is filled with legendary shooters who’ve pushed the boundaries. Before Curry, the record was held by players like Craig Hodges, who scored 25 points back in 1991, and later, Devin Booker’s 28 in 2018. What stands out to me is how the scoring has crept up over the years, reflecting the NBA’s shift toward three-point heavy offenses. I’ve analyzed shooting data for years, and it’s clear: the average three-point attempt rate has jumped from around 15% in the early 90s to over 35% today. Curry’s record isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s a symbol of that evolution. When I think about the mechanics, it’s all about speed and accuracy under fatigue—something Curry masters by practicing at game intensity, often with defenders in his face, which most contest shooters don’t face.

So, how do shooters like Curry achieve such heights? From my conversations with coaches and players, it boils down to a mix of mental preparation and relentless repetition. In Curry’s case, his training involves thousands of shots per week, focusing not just on makes but on maintaining form when tired. Compare that to the challenges TNT might face with Williams and Pogoy out—their shooters would need to ramp up similar routines to fill the scoring void. I’ve seen teams in the PBA and NBA use video analysis to identify shooting hotspots, but it’s the individual drive that separates the good from the great. For instance, Curry’s ability to hit 31 points came from his familiarity with the contest format, where he’d simulate the clock and rack sequences in practice. It’s a lesson for any team: if you want to excel in high-pressure situations, tailor your drills to mimic those moments.

What does this mean for the broader basketball world? Well, as a fan and analyst, I believe records like Curry’s push the entire sport forward. They set new standards for what’s possible, inspiring young players to focus on shooting as a primary skill. In leagues globally, from the NBA to the PBA, we’re seeing more emphasis on developing three-point specialists, and events like the three-point contest serve as a showcase for that evolution. Personally, I love this trend—it makes games more dynamic and unpredictable. But it also raises the bar; if a team like TNT is dealing with injuries, they might look to their shooters to carry the load, much like how Curry’s record reminds us that in modern basketball, a hot hand from beyond the arc can turn any game around. Ultimately, whether it’s chasing history in a contest or grinding through a season, the lesson is the same: mastery of the three-pointer isn’t just a skill, it’s a strategic advantage that can define eras and break records.