How the Three-Pointer Changed the Game
A familiar part of basketball that has redefined the nature of the sport is the three-point line. Introduced in the 1979-80 NBA season, it has significantly impacted every aspect of the game. Perimeter shooting became emphasized to increase point values per shot.
As a result, teams now place a higher valuation on players who can shoot from beyond the arc, and the league has seen a steady increase in the number of three-pointers attempted and made each season.
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The three-point line has also led to strategic developments. For example, new offensive and defensive schemes were devised to boost and, for the defense, limit the number of three-pointers.
The defense of the three-point line must be aggressive to avoid the desired shot. However, this can open opportunities for players to drive to the basket. Additionally, teams have had to adapt to the pick-and-roll. This play involves a player setting a screen for another player, who then uses the screen to get open for a shot while the screener rolls to the basket.
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Teams with strong three-point shooters use the line to stretch the defense and create more space for other players to operate. On the other hand, teams without strong three-point shooters may focus on driving to the basket and playing more of an inside game.
Plays constructed by coaches may use the three-point line to their advantage-- specifically designed to prioritize the high-scoring shot. The value of players has also changed.
Prior to the introduction of the three-point line, players who could shoot well from long range were not as highly sought after compared to players who excelled at other skills like the lay-up.
Now, teams place a premium on players who can consistently knock down three-pointers, which has increased the number of players who specialize in this skill.
This has led to the creation of "stretch" big men, who are taller players that can consistently make three-pointers. Teams also look to sign "sharpshooters" as role players, only leaving the bench to provide a scoring spark from the three-point line.
Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets shoots a game-winning three-pointer over Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner. (Photo by David Zalubowski/AP Photo)
Even the way the game is broadcasted and watched has been impacted. The three-point line provides an exciting spark for spectators that increases the speed of the game. This quickness adds a new dimension to the game, making comebacks and last-second shots more common.
Keen fans often pay close attention to the number of three-pointers made and how this affects the outcome of a particular game. Likewise, broadcasters often emphasize the three-pointer, emphasizing them significantly and, like the keen fans, analyze how this determines the score.
(Dmytro Aksonov//Getty Images)
Overall, the three-point line has had a major impact on the NBA and basketball as a sport. The esteemed shot has developed the game to be more strategic, dynamic, exhilarating, and versatile. All actors in the sport have evolved due to the addition of the three-pointer: players, coaches, and fans too.
