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Many people would assume that it would be impossible for 2 kids to break a record set by professional athletes.
But here at Guinness World Records, nothing is impossible! And Cole and Caleb Krueger from Genoa, Illinois, USA, are proof of this!
At just 15 and 14 years old, respectively, they scored 20 hoops to claim the record for the most basketball three pointers in 1 minute (team of 2). 🏀
A three pointer is a goal made from behind the three-point line, which is shaped like a semi-circle and surrounds the basket.
They exceeded the previous mark of 16, which was set by Arysia “Ace” Porter and Jahmani “Hot Shot” Swanson of the Harlem Globetrotters.
The Harlem Globetrotters are the heroes of exhibition basketball! 🤩
They are known for showcasing their tricks and stunts in stadiums all over the world, and hold a large number of GWR titles, including:
So, how did the young brothers beat their record?
Well, they took up the sport when they were 6 and 7 years old.
Their earliest memory on the court was winning the Park District basketball championship on a team called “Swish Cheese”. 🧀
They were inspired to start basketball after hearing stories from their dad, Matt, who used to play in high school and at college.
Cole and Caleb told GWR: “He sparked both of our interests in the sport and from there we started practicing, to make our own legacy and find love [for] the sport, just like [our] dad did.”
It’s safe to say the boys are certainly making basketball history! 👏
In August 2024, they earned their 1st GWR title: most basketball passes by a pair in 1 minute (Under 16s) - 80.
And just 4 months later, the duo accomplished the three pointers record! 🎉
So, how did Cole and Caleb prepare for the record attempt?
They said: “Putting in practice every day was key and just trying to beat our goal from the day before kept us on track, since it was a build-up of each time we practiced.
“We faced many challenges as we were practicing,” the brothers admitted. “There [were] always going to be off nights and that was mentally the most challenging part. One day, we [could be] really close to beating the record, and the next day, it could be a different story and we’d barely hit any shots.”
So, how did they overcome this? “Consistency and practising the goal multiple times over in the same day if we were having a good shooting day.
“As cheesy as it sounds, staying positive and not getting discouraged played a big role too.” 😊
This exciting experience reminded them that they “can perform at a high level and succeed under pressure”.
They said: “The Harlem Globetrotters succeeded at making this a hard record to beat but it feels reassuring to us that we can do anything we put our minds to, even at the young ages we are at.”
Here’s your reminder that you are capable of achieving your wildest dreams! 💭
The brothers credit the Globetrotters for deepening their love for the sport with their innovative trick shots.
They also love to watch NBA games on TV and take inspiration from their idols.
Cole explained: “My biggest inspiration is Stephen Curry because he is the greatest shooter of all time, in my opinion. Watching him play on TV inspires me to put in more practice with my own shot.
“In different interviews, he has talked about being the smallest kid on the team [when he was younger]. I can relate to him, and this has forced me to learn to shoot from behind the arc just like him.”
Caleb added: “My biggest inspiration is Fred VanVleet because he grew up around the same area as us and is a really good ball handler.
“We also play the same position in basketball so he is someone I can look up to.”
If you’re feeling inspired to attempt a GWR title, here’s some great advice from Cole and Caleb…
“Both of us would give the advice of consistently practicing and not getting discouraged if you have an off day.
“Some days are harder than others to get up and feel great about putting in the work, but it is important to set a goal that gets you excited about practicing because of the outcome you could have.”
So, it begs the question… what record will the Krueger brothers attempt next? 🤔
Congratulations, Cole and Caleb, you are both Officially Amazing! 🏅