From its humble beginnings to its current status as a staple of modern basketball, the three-pointer has come a long way since its introduction to the NBA in the 1979-1980 season. Initially met with skepticism, the three-point shot has evolved into a game changer, transforming the way teams strategize and players develop their skills.
Early Days and Pioneers
Before the three-pointer became a permanent fixture in the NCAA, players like Jeff Fryer and Freddie Banks were already showcasing their long-range shooting skills. Fryer’s 41-point performance in the 1990 NCAA Tournament remains a gold standard for three-point shooting in March Madness, while Banks was a star on UNLV’s 1987 Final Four team. Coaches like Paul Westhead and Jerry Tarkanian recognized the potential of the three-pointer and began incorporating it into their offensive schemes.
Adoption and Experimentation in the NBA
As the three-point shot made its way into the NBA, some coaches, such as Don Nelson and Mike D’Antoni, were quick to recognize its potential and began incorporating it into their offenses. Rule changes, such as moving the three-point line closer and then farther away, made the shot more attractive and challenging. The rise of analytics in the NBA also played a role in the evolution of the shot, as teams began to understand the value of a three-point attempt compared to a two-point shot.
Modern Day Dominance
Today, the three-point shot is more important than ever, with teams attempting an average of 34.1 three-point shots per game in the 2019-2020 season. The success rate of these shots has also increased, with teams shooting an average of 35.8% from beyond the arc in the same season. This shift in offensive strategy has led to the development of new types of players, such as “stretch” forwards and centers who can shoot from beyond the arc, adding a new dimension to team offenses.
Impact on Individual Performances and Awards
The prominence of the three-pointer has also influenced the race for individual awards, such as the MVP. Current MVP contenders Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic both possess the ability to shoot from beyond the arc, adding to their already impressive skill sets. Embiid, who leads the NBA with a 33.2-point scoring average per game, believes his MVP hopes should not be affected by missing a game against Jokic and the Denver Nuggets due to injury. Jokic, on the other hand, is averaging 24.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 9.9 assists, sparking debate over whether he could win a third straight MVP award.
Conclusion
The evolution of the NBA three-pointer has undoubtedly changed the game of basketball. From its early days as a novelty to its current status as a crucial component of team strategy, the three-point shot has transformed the way players develop their skills and how teams approach the game. As the NBA continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how the three-pointer continues to shape the future of the sport.