- Celtics surpass Golden State's 1,364 three-point record from 2022-23 season
- 14/39 three-point performance in decisive 123-103 victory vs Suns
- Back-to-back top-three shooting seasons including 2023 championship run
The Boston Celtics have redefined perimeter dominance, achieving what many considered unthinkable just two seasons after Golden State's landmark performance. Their systematic dismantling of the Phoenix Suns showcased not just raw shooting talent, but a calculated offensive philosophy reshaping championship basketball.
Friday night's historic basket came via Payton Pritchard's second-quarter shot, marking the 1,364th three-pointer that officially broke the Warriors' record. Kristaps Porzingis' subsequent three cemented the achievement, demonstrating the team's depth beyond star players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The latter's 35-foot bank shot under shot-clock pressure epitomized Boston's confidence in high-risk/high-reward plays.
Three unique factors differentiate Boston's approach: 1) Positionless lineups creating mismatches 2) Data-driven shot selection optimizing corner three attempts 3) Player development programs increasing bench shooting accuracy by 18% since 2021. This systemic approach explains their consecutive top-three shooting seasons despite roster changes.
New England's basketball culture plays a crucial role. The Celtics' analytics team collaborates with MIT Sports Lab, using Cambridge-based research to refine shot arc trajectories. Regional youth programs now emphasize three-point drills for players as young as 12, creating a pipeline of perimeter specialists.
As the NBA evolves toward positionless basketball, Boston's record signals a league-wide shift. Teams now average 34.6 three-point attempts per game compared to 24.1 in 2015-16. However, the Celtics' 38.9% conversion rate on high-volume attempts (39 per game) suggests quality-over-quantity refinement missing from earlier three-point revolutions.
With seven players shooting above 36% from deep, Boston's balanced attack defies defensive schemes. Opponents face impossible choices: double-team Tatum in the post and leave snipers like Derrick White open, or play perimeter defense and surrender paint points. This strategic duality makes them favorites for back-to-back championships.