'I like my chances against anybody' - Ray Allen thinks he would knock off Steph Curry in a 3-point contest

Originally posted on Basketball Network | By Adel Ahmad | Last updated Nov 23, 2024 9:29 AM ET

Clutch shots, perfect accuracy from beyond the arc, and a legacy that once defined the art of three-point shooting—not Steph Curry, but the three-point king before him, Ray Allen.

For a decade, Allen held the record for the most three-pointers made in NBA history. This feat stood untouched until Curry came along and redefined what shooting from deep truly meant. One must first revisit the path that established him as a legend to understand Allen's confidence.

Best from a distance?

Allen's journey began in Milwaukee, where his silky jump shot made him an instant threat. A decade later, he'd carved a name as the league's most dependable sniper, including stints with the Seattle SuperSonics, Boston Celtics , and Miami Heat, cementing his reputation.

Ray Allen's legacy:
2,973 3-pointers.
Four teams.
Two championships.

One legendary jumper. pic.twitter.com/qh1W4GuMy4
— ESPN (@espn) November 1, 2016

In Boston, "Jesus Shuttlesworth" became part of the famed Big Three, teaming up with Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett to deliver the Celtics their first NBA championship in over two decades in 2008.

His lethal perimeter shooting became a cornerstone of Boston's success, and his ice-cold demeanor in high-pressure moments earned him the respect of players and fans alike.

However, Steph's emergence in the last decade toppled his legacy. But that hasn't stopped fans from speculating who would win in a head-to-head 3-point contest against the two elite sharpshooters. Even as Steph ascended to what many believe is the pinnacle of long-range marksmanship, Ray remains confident in his own abilities.

"It's tough to say," says Allen. "Steph is great; he's a great shooter. I like my chances against anybody, but it's, I don't even think a lot of times I was the best shooter on my team. When I played in Boston, I thought Eddie House was the best. When I was in Miami, James Jones and Mike Miller were the best shooters on the team."

A notable legacy

Miami witnessed one of Allen's most iconic shooting moments—Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals. With the Heat trailing the San Antonio Spurs and the championship on the line, No. 34 drained a corner three with 5.2 seconds left to force overtime, saving Miami's season and paving the way for a title. Moments like this defined the guard's career—poise, precision, and a talent for delivering under immense pressure.

Ray Allen says LeBron and Coach Spo still call to thank him for hitting his iconic shot in Game 6 of the 2013 Finals

One of the greatest shots in NBA Finals history.

(via @CBSSports) pic.twitter.com/iofE8lpaK0
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 9, 2021

"Just being able to shoot them every day gave me that confidence to go out to the game and be able to push forward, so that's just what made me work harder. I always felt if I missed, then I wasn't going to be as good as people thought," Allen said.

The former sharpshooter may no longer hold the title of the greatest shooter in terms of numbers. Still, his legacy goes beyond the stat sheet. His disciplined approach, clutch moments, and ability to rise to the occasion made him one of the most feared shooters of his generation.

This article first appeared on Basketball Network and was syndicated with permission.

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