BLEACHERREPORT

B/R 99: Ranking the NBA's 99 Best Shooters of All Time

David Thorne
David Thorne
NewsHue Author
Stephen Curry shooting a basketball during an NBA game, highlighting the mechanics of the game's greatest shooter.

Bleacher Report just dropped their definitive ranking of the 99 greatest NBA shooters in history. This list spans every era of the game, from the legends who dominated before the three-point line existed to the modern stars of the three-point revolution.

The staff panel weighed advanced metrics against historical context, ensuring both pure long-range specialists and mid-range masters received recognition. The methodology focuses on shooting ability rather than cumulative career production alone, allowing voters to contrast different styles and levels of defensive pressure across decades.

From Desmond Bane at 99 to the consensus number one pick Stephen Curry, the ranking provides a look at how jump-shooting techniques have shifted over the last seventy years. Whether it highlights the unorthodox deliveries of players like Tyrese Haliburton or the technical precision of guys like Allan Houston, the list captures the evolution of how teams approach scoring.

Players were judged on their ability to create space, shot consistency, and their knack for hitting high-leverage buckets. The final result is a conversation piece for fans who argue over era differences and the value of specific skill sets in a fast-paced league. You can check out the full breakdown and the justifications for these placements on the Bleacher Report app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is ranked as the best shooter in NBA history by Bleacher Report?+
Stephen Curry is ranked number one, receiving 100 percent of the first-place votes from the panel.
What criteria did the B/R staff use to rank the shooters?+
The panel evaluated players using a combination of standard and advanced metrics, era context, and defensive pressure.
Does the list include players from before the three-point line existed?+
Yes, the ranking includes both pre- and post-three-point line shooters to provide a historical overview of shooting skill.
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David Thorne
David Thorne
David Thorne covers sports and health. With over a decade of experience, he brings deep insights into athletic performance and wellness.