Kyrie Irving made history on January 20, 2025, as he surpassed NBA legend Kobe Bryant on the all-time three-pointers made (3PM) list during the Dallas Mavericks’ game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Irving’s achievement came with a deep three-pointer, marking his 1,828th career triple, which put him ahead of Bryant’s total of 1,827.
The milestone was a testament to Irving’s consistent shooting ability and his place among the NBA’s elite guards. Irving, who achieved the feat in just 761 career games, accomplished the record in significantly fewer appearances than Bryant, who played 1,346 games over a 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Irving’s unique and versatile scoring style has often been defined by his dazzling ball-handling, elite finishing, and deadly three-point shooting. Though often known for his clutch moments and dazzling layups, Irving has become increasingly known for his ability to stretch the floor with the three-pointer, especially in clutch situations. His latest achievement speaks to the evolution of his game and the modern NBA’s emphasis on long-range shooting.
The Mavericks’ game against the Thunder was another example of Irving’s ability to make an impact. Though the game was a team effort, with Irving’s remarkable scoring providing a huge boost, his individual milestone was a key talking point. After hitting the record-breaking shot, Irving was congratulated by his teammates and acknowledged the significance of the achievement during a post-game interview. “It’s surreal to pass a legend like Kobe,” Irving said. “He meant so much to the game and to me personally. It’s humbling to even be mentioned in the same breath as him.”
Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in 2020, was one of the most iconic players in NBA history. Known for his scoring prowess and work ethic, Bryant’s impact on the game of basketball is immeasurable. With Irving’s passing of Bryant on the 3PM list, it highlights how the game continues to evolve and how today’s players are continuing to break new boundaries.
As Irving continues to climb the all-time ranks, he is quickly becoming one of the league’s most respected players. This achievement adds to his already impressive resume, which includes an NBA championship and multiple All-Star selections. With plenty of basketball still ahead of him, Irving looks set to reach even more milestones, further cementing his legacy in the NBA.
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BREAKING: Mavs’ Kyrie Irving Passes Kobe Bryant in NBA Record Books vs. Thunder