The 19-year journey of the NBA's most prolific fourth-quarter specialist
In short: From a high school champion in Seattle to an NBA title winner, Jason Terry mastered the art of the clutch performance. Known as 'JET', he transformed from a highly touted rookie into one of the greatest three-point shooters the league has ever seen.
Jason Terry's professional ascent began with the Atlanta Hawks, who selected him 10th overall in the 1999 NBA draft. While his early years in Atlanta were marked by individual flashes of brilliance—including a 38-point game in December 2000—the team struggled to find postseason success. His career took a definitive turn on August 4, 2004, when a trade brought him to the Dallas Mavericks.
In Dallas, Terry embraced a persona that matched his nickname, often mimicking an airplane with his arms. He became a cornerstone of the Mavericks' offense, famously joining Steve Nash as one of the few players to achieve elite efficiency by shooting at least 50% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 80% from the free-throw line. His ability to perform under pressure earned him the 2009 NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award and a pivotal role in the Mavericks' 2011 championship run.
Terry's impact on the game's history is etched in the record books through his long-range shooting. By December 2014, he became only the third player in NBA history to reach the 2,000 three-pointer milestone. As of April 2026, he sits twelfth on the all-time list for three-point field goals made. Beyond the court, his legacy includes a 2024 legal challenge against the NCAA regarding the unauthorized use of his likeness in promotional materials.
After a 19-year playing career that saw him suit up for the Celtics, Rockets, and Bucks, Terry transitioned into coaching. He has served in various roles, from assistant general manager for the Texas Legends to his current position as an assistant coach for the Utah Jazz.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Jason Terry
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