Klay Thompson Reflects on Passing Reggie Miller for Fifth All-Time in 3-Pointers Made: “A Dream Come True”

Klay Thompson added another milestone to his illustrious career on Christmas Day, becoming the fifth all-time leader in three-pointers made. Thompson drilled his 2,562nd three-pointer with 8:49 left in the fourth quarter, surpassing Hall of Famer Reggie Miller, who retired in 2005.

“As far as passing Reggie, it’s honestly a dream come true,” Thompson said. “I’m gonna celebrate it tonight because just thinking about all the hours you spend shooting, all the shots you’ve gotten up in your lifetime, and to pass such an icon like Reggie is super surreal for me. Especially being a 90’s baby, I watched him hit so many game-winners, battle against the best that ever played, and leave it all out on the floor.”

Miller, known for his clutch shooting and playoff battles, left a lasting impression on Thompson, who watched some of his most iconic moments growing up.

“His game-winning shots, his battles with Mike and Kobe. Taking a small market team like the Pacers all the way to the NBA Finals, being in the East Finals routinely, and just being the standard for what a shooting guard should look like,” Thompson said. “Ever since I was a teenager, I studied the way he moved without the ball. It’s had a huge impact on my game. I remember working out with the Knicks in 2011, and Donnie Walsh said I reminded him of Reggie. That meant a lot to me.”

Thompson now finds himself among elite company, joining active players Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, and James Harden in the top five for 3-pointers made.

“It’s an honor to be out there with those guys,” Thompson said. “It’s incredible because I’ve battled James and Dame and guarded them for a decade plus in the most pressurized moments in the playoffs. Now to be competing alongside Steph is also very special. What an era. … The fact that we’re doing it and we’re still all playing at a high level is really cool. Ray Allen is still in there too. I couldn’t ask for a better Christmas present.”

Klay Thompson marked the occasion by bringing in a jersey and memorabilia to commemorate the achievement.

“I’m gonna keep the ball. I’m gonna send the jersey to Reggie. I’m gonna inscribe it for him because he meant that much to me growing up,” Thompson said.

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, 18th on the all-time 3-point list, took a moment to reflect on Thompson’s achievement.

“It’s incredible for his journey. Klay will go down as one of the best shooters to ever play the game,” Kidd said. “Passing Reggie today is historic. Despite the outcome of the game, it’s something he’ll reflect on.”

Kyrie Irving congratulated Thompson after his milestone achievement, expressing pride in his teammate’s journey.

“I congratulated him after the game and told him I was proud of him,” Irving said. “I also told him he should have been fifth a long time ago. I don’t take for granted the lessons he’s learned and the growth he’s made as a man and player. We know how special he is—not just as a shooter, but as a winner.”

Irving emphasized Thompson’s steadiness and calmness on the court, qualities he admires deeply.

“He shows up every day, consistent and poised. You never see Klay rattled. He doesn’t go crazy over calls. To see him climb the ranks and do it humbly is beautiful. I’m just appreciative to be his teammate and part of history.”

Additionally, Irving spoke highly of Thompson’s precision as a shooter, acknowledging the skill required to achieve such a feat.

“Shooting threes in the NBA is difficult. A lot of people don’t have their footwork right, even after ten years in the league,” Irving explained. “Klay’s one of the best shooters I’ve ever seen. He’s up there with the guys I respect most behind the three-point line. They’re lasers, man. I’m happy for him.”

Reflecting on the broader picture of elite shooters, Irving added, “Ray, Reggie, Steph, James, and now Klay. That’s the top five. Dame is right there too. … The three-point attempts from 1988-89 to now are completely different. They’ve changed the game.”

Klay Thompson and Irving later joked about which of the top five maintained career 3-point shooting percentages above 40%. The answer: Ray Allen (40.0%), Stephen Curry (42.5%), and Thompson himself (41.2%).

“Watching those guys be efficient and have fun shooting is just beautiful,” Irving said. “You have to respect the preparation and work they put in when no one’s watching.”