Stephen Curry’s 2015-16 NBA season remains the greatest shooting performance in basketball history — 402 three-pointers, unanimous MVP, 73-9 Warriors record, and revolutionary impact on how basketball is played.
The Historic Season
2015-16: Curry averaged 30.1 PPG, 6.7 APG, 5.4 RPG on 50.4/45.4/90.8 shooting splits:
- 402 three-pointers made (breaking his own record of 286)
- First unanimous MVP in NBA history (73 first-place votes)
- Led Warriors to 73-9 record (best regular season ever)
- Shot from 30+ feet regularly (made NBA rethink floor spacing)
Curry’s range forced defenses to guard half-court. “Curry range” entered lexicon. Kids emulated his quick release, deep threes.
The Iconic Moments
February 27, 2016: 46 points vs. OKC, including game-winner from 38 feet (ran to tunnel before it went in). Symbolic of his confidence.
Regular season: Curry won games from absurd distances. Double-teamed at half-court. Still splashed.
“I’m back” game vs. Blazers (playoffs): 17 points in OT after returning from injury.
The Finals Collapse
Warriors blew 3-1 lead to Cavaliers in Finals. Curry averaged 22.6 PPG (below standards). Draymond suspension (Game 5), Curry fouled out (Game 6). LeBron’s block, Kyrie’s shot.
73-9 without championship — greatest season asterisk. Critics say regular season meaningless without ring.
Revolutionary Impact
Curry changed NBA forever:
- Every team shoots more threes now (2010s: ~18/game → 2020s: ~35/game)
- Big men developed three-point shots (to survive)
- Mid-range shots declined
- Pace-and-space offenses (inspired by Warriors) became standard
Legacy
Curry’s 2015-16 remains peak individual offensive season (some argue). Four championships total (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022). Finals MVP (2022).
But 2016 season = greatest shooting ever seen. Changed basketball philosophy. Made three-pointer ultimate weapon.
The Chef cooked the league.
Source: NBA.com