Hersey Hawkins: A Sharpshooter Before His Time

Hersey Hawkins may not be the first name that comes to mind when discussing the NBA's greatest shooters, but his impact from beyond the arc deserves recognition. Playing in an era before the three-pointer became the dominant force it is today, Hawkins quietly established himself as one of the league's most reliable marksmen.

Early Signs of a Sniper:

Hawkins' shooting touch was evident early on. At Bradley University, he led the nation in scoring and earned All-American honors, showcasing a smooth and accurate jump shot. This translated seamlessly to the NBA, where he was drafted 6th overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in 1988 and immediately traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.¹

A Consistent Threat from Deep:

While the league was still adapting to the three-point line, Hawkins embraced it. He possessed a quick release, textbook form, and the confidence to let it fly. Here's a closer look at his three-point prowess:

• Career 39.4% from three: This impressive percentage places him among the NBA's all-time elite, especially considering the era in which he played.
• Exceeded 40% in five seasons: Hawkins consistently shot above 40% from three-point range, demonstrating remarkable accuracy and consistency.
• 1,000+ made threes: He finished his career with 1,055 made three-pointers, a testament to his longevity and shooting volume.

Beyond the Numbers:

Hawkins' impact extended beyond his impressive shooting percentages. He was a complete player, known for his solid defense, smart decision-making, and leadership qualities. He played a key role for several successful teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Charlotte Hornets, and Seattle SuperSonics.²

A Pioneer of the Three-Point Era:

While players like Larry Bird and Reggie Miller often receive more acclaim for their three-point shooting, Hawkins was a pioneer in his own right. He helped pave the way for the modern NBA, where the three-pointer has become a weapon of choice.

Overlooked but Not Forgotten:

Despite his impressive accomplishments, Hawkins often gets overlooked in discussions about the NBA's greatest shooters. However, his consistent accuracy, high volume of made threes, and impact on the game deserve recognition. Hersey Hawkins was a sharpshooter before his time, a player who helped shape the NBA's evolution into a three-point-centric league.