Trey Murphy III breaks Pelicans all-time three-point record with 696 made, but CJ McCollum’s reaction afterward proves sportsmanship still exists

Trey Murphy III just etched his name into Pelicans history. On Sunday, January 4, the 25-year-old forward broke the New Orleans franchise record for career three-pointers made. Murphy surpassed CJ McCollum’s previous mark of 692 threes with a left-wing shot in the second quarter at Miami. The accomplishment comes just two days ago, cementing Murphy’s legacy with the franchise.

The Historic Three-Point Record Achievement

Trey Murphy III made his move into the Pelicans’ history books on Sunday afternoon against Miami. With a second-quarter left-wing three-pointer, Murphy hit his 693rd career three-pointer as a member of New Orleans. This surpassed CJ McCollum’s previous record of 692 threes made while wearing the black and gold uniform. Murphy continues to shoot at a torrid pace this season, already accumulating 89 three-pointers through the team’s first 36 games.

The timing of this achievement carries special significance. Unlike McCollum, who was 29 when he broke the record, and Jrue Holiday, who was 33, Murphy accomplished this feat at just 25 years old. This suggests he could potentially extend the record far into the future if he maintains his shooting pace.

Climbing Past Franchise Legends

This is the third time since 2019 that New Orleans’ franchise record for made three-pointers has been broken. Jrue Holiday held the crown from December 2019 until January 2025, when CJ McCollum surpassed him with 692 threes. Holiday ended his New Orleans tenure with 628 three-pointers across seven seasons. Peja Stojakovic previously held the record before Holiday dethroned him. Murphy’s placement suggests he could hold this record for many years to come.

Murphy’s Path to Franchise Glory

Trey Murphy III was drafted 17th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies and later traded to New Orleans. His rookie year was marked by injuries and limited playing time, but Murphy persevered. He attended both Rice University and Virginia during his college career, establishing himself as a prolific three-point shooter from day one. This season, Murphy is on pace to exceed 200 three-pointers, joining elite company in franchise history.

“It was great, especially getting it this early. I started off my rookie year pretty rough, so being able to get it in my fifth year is a testament to the work, my teammates finding me, and the Pelicans giving me the opportunity.”

— Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans Forward

The Mentorship and Legacy Impact

CJ McCollum, who held the record Murphy just broke, immediately texted his younger teammate to congratulate him. McCollum was instrumental in Murphy’s development during their time together in New Orleans, serving as a veteran presence and mentor. McCollum averaged 3.1 made threes per game in his 223 games with the Pelicans. Murphy’s journey reflects the evolution from struggling rookie to franchise cornerstone player. At 696 three-pointers with three years remaining on his contract extension, Murphy could extend this record far beyond reach by 2029.

What Does This Record Mean for the Pelicans’ Future?

Murphy’s three-point prowess represents a cornerstone of the Pelicans’ offensive identity moving forward. His 696 threes come in just 285 games, an extraordinary pace compared to his predecessors. Holiday averaged 1.5 made threes per game across seven seasons, while McCollum managed 3.1 per game in 223 appearances. At age 25, Murphy has the potential to become a generational three-point shooter for New Orleans. The franchise can build its future around his shooting ability and versatility. With continued development and health, Murphy could build a legacy that defines the next era of Pelicans basketball.

References

• NBA.com – Official coverage of Trey Murphy’s franchise record achievement
• Yahoo Sports – Reporting on Murphy’s reaction and McCollum’s mentorship impact
• ClutchPoints – Interview details about Murphy’s journey to the record

Sources

• NBA.com – Comprehensive coverage of Trey Murphy breaking New Orleans franchise record
• Yahoo Sports – Player reaction and historical context from ClutchPoints
• StatMuse – Complete Pelicans all-time three-point leaders statistics

Michael Brown

Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.