In the modern NBA, one thing is clear: the three-point shot is no longer just a tool—it’s a cornerstone of the game. What was once considered a high-risk, low-reward strategy has evolved into the most crucial weapon in a team’s arsenal. But how did the league get here, and what does the three-point revolution mean for the future of basketball? Let’s dive in.

The Origins of the Three-Point Shot

The three-point line made its NBA debut in the 1979-80 season, inspired by its success in the ABA. Initially viewed with skepticism, players and coaches were slow to adopt the shot. Teams averaged just 2.8 three-point attempts per game in the inaugural season, with most players sticking to the safer two-point options.

Fast forward to today, and teams like the Golden State Warriors are taking nearly 40 threes per game. The shift has been nothing short of revolutionary.

Learn more about the history of the three-point shot.

The Three-Point Explosion

The past decade has seen the league embrace the three-point shot like never before. In the 2023-24 season, teams averaged over 36 three-point attempts per game, a stark contrast to the early 2000s. This explosion can be attributed to several factors:

• Analytics: Modern data analytics have shown that three-pointers, when taken efficiently, yield higher returns than mid-range shots.

• Player Skill Development: Players are now trained to shoot from long range from a young age, making deep shots more consistent and less risky.

• Influential Teams: The Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, set the template for three-point dominance, inspiring the rest of the league to follow suit.

Discover how analytics are shaping NBA strategies.

Impact on the Game

The three-point revolution has fundamentally changed how basketball is played. Here’s how:

1. Increased Floor Spacing

With more players shooting from beyond the arc, defenses are stretched thinner than ever. This creates opportunities for drives to the basket and inside scoring. Big men like Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic now thrive in this era by balancing perimeter play with their dominance in the paint.

2. Positionless Basketball

Gone are the days when big men stuck to the low post. Players like Kevin Durant and Kristaps Porzingis have redefined positions, proving that even seven-footers can be lethal from beyond the arc.

3. Faster Pace of Play

The emphasis on three-pointers has sped up the game. Teams are now averaging more possessions per game, making contests more dynamic and high-scoring.

Notable Milestones in Three-Point History

Stephen Curry’s Reign

Stephen Curry became the NBA’s all-time three-point leader in 2021 and has continued to shatter records. With over 3,400 career triples, Curry remains the gold standard for long-range shooters.

See Stephen Curry’s career stats.

The Rise of the Houston Rockets

Under coach Mike D’Antoni, the Rockets took the three-point philosophy to the extreme, setting a then-record for most three-point attempts in a season in 2018. Though controversial, their approach proved how game-changing the three-point shot could be.

2024-25: A New Record on the Horizon?

In the current season, teams like the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets are on pace to break new three-point shooting records, continuing the trend of long-range dominance.

The Future of the Three-Point Revolution

As teams take more threes, the debate around their impact intensifies. Critics argue that the reliance on three-point shooting has diminished other aspects of the game, such as mid-range play and post dominance. Supporters, however, see it as a natural evolution, showcasing skill and strategy.

Looking ahead, we may see further rule changes or innovations to balance the game. Could a four-point line be next?