The NBA Record For 3-Pointers In A Season Falls Yet Again. This achievement underscores the team’s offensive evolution and reflects a broader league-wide trend emphasizing perimeter shooting.
Celtics’ Record-Breaking Performance
In a commanding 124-90 victory over the Washington Wizards on April 6, 2025, the Celtics showcased their offensive depth by connecting on 24 of 52 attempts from beyond the arc. This performance not only highlighted their shooting prowess but also contributed to their cumulative season total, allowing them to surpass the previous record for most three-pointers made in a single NBA season.
Key Contributors and Team Dynamics
The Celtics’ success from three-point range has been a collective effort. In the game against the Wizards, seven players scored in double figures, with Payton Pritchard leading at 20 points and Derrick White adding 19, including five three-pointers. Sam Hauser, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, and Al Horford also made significant contributions, exemplifying the team’s balanced approach. Notably, Horford’s veteran presence and leadership have been instrumental in energizing the team throughout the season.
Historical Context and Evolution
The Celtics’ achievement is part of a broader evolution in the NBA, where the emphasis on three-point shooting has grown exponentially. Earlier in the season, on October 22, 2024, the Celtics tied the NBA record by making 29 three-pointers in a game against the New York Knicks. This feat underscored their offensive capabilities and set the stage for their record-breaking season.
League-Wide Emphasis on Three-Point Shooting
The Celtics are not alone in their reliance on the three-point shot. Teams across the league have increasingly prioritized perimeter shooting as a central component of their offensive strategies. For instance, the Los Angeles Lakers recently showcased their three-point capabilities by hitting a season-high 22 three-pointers in a decisive 126-99 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Implications for the Future
The Celtics’ record-breaking season reflects a significant shift in the NBA’s offensive paradigm. As teams continue to emphasize three-point shooting, the league may witness further records being challenged and broken. This evolution not only changes the dynamics of the game but also influences player development, scouting, and overall team strategies.
In conclusion, the Boston Celtics’ achievement in setting a new single-season record for three-pointers made is a testament to their offensive innovation and execution. It also highlights the NBA’s ongoing transformation, where the three-point shot has become a pivotal element of the modern game.