# Who Invented the 3 Point Shot? 7 Shocking Facts Every Basketball Fan Must Know
When people ask, “who invented the 3 point shot,” most instantly think of the NBA. But did the famous long-range shot truly originate there? Not quite. The story behind the 3 point shot is layered, colorful, and surprisingly global. In this article, I’ll walk you through the full origin, its makers, and how the 3 point shot changed basketball as we know it.
# What Exactly Is the 3 Point Shot?
**Q:** What makes the 3 point shot special? Since its official adoption, the 3 point shot has revolutionized both offensive and defensive basketball strategies. In simple terms, it’s a shot made from beyond the arc painted on the basketball court. If you make it, you earn three points instead of two. But here’s where things get interesting: this shot actually has roots dating back much earlier than many people suspect.
# The True Inventors: Professional & Semi-Pro Roots
Before the NBA even sniffed at the three-pointer, another league took the plunge. The American Basketball League (ABL) is widely credited with officially introducing the 3 point shot in the 1961-62 season, thanks to league founder Abe Saperstein. Saperstein’s intention? To make games more exciting and draw bigger crowds (来源: [NBA.com]). Here’s how the ABL and a rival league, the ABA, compare when it comes to the 3 point shot:
| League | Year Adopted | Creator/Influencer | Initial Reaction |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABL (American Basketball League) | 1961 | Abe Saperstein | Curiosity and mixed reviews |
| ABA (American Basketball Association) | 1967 | Dennis Murphy, George Mikan | Sensational and embraced by fans |
Surprised that the NBA was late to the party? You’re not alone. The NBA only introduced the 3 point shot in 1979, after both the ABL and ABA had tested the waters.
# How the 3 Point Shot Revolutionized Basketball
The 3 point shot has completely changed basketball strategy at every level—college, international, and professional. Coaches and players alike started re-evaluating offensive plays, spacing, and player selection. According to a study by Statista, the percentage of NBA field goals attempted from three-point range skyrocketed from just 3 percent in 1980 to over 39 percent by 2023 (来源: [Statista.com]). That is a game-changing shift!
Back in the day, centers and forwards dominated close to the basket. Now, even seven-footers like Nikola Jokic are expected to shoot from downtown. Just take Stephen Curry’s career as a prime case: his influence alone pushed many teams to rebuild their offense around shooters and spacing.
# Step-by-Step: How Did the NBA Adopt the 3 Point Shot?
If you’re hungry for the detailed journey from idea to NBA staple, here’s a handy walkthrough.
1. The ABL’s Experiment: Abe Saperstein first implemented the rule in 1961 to add excitement.
2. ABA’s Growth: The ABA adopted the shot in 1967, promoting it as a symbol of their league’s flair.
3. College Basketball: NCAA allowed it as an experiment in various conferences by 1980.
4. NBA’s Reluctance: The NBA was hesitant, seeing it as a “gimmick” at first.
5. NBA Adoption: In 1979, post-ABA-NBA merger, the league made the three-pointer official.
6. Ongoing Evolution: Today, analytics, coaches, and players widely embrace the 3 point shot.
# Notable 3 Point Shot Milestones
Some big moments marked the evolution of the shot. In the NBA’s very first season with the new rule (1979-80), Chris Ford of the Boston Celtics became the first to sink a 3 pointer in a regular season NBA game. Decades later, Ray Allen and Stephen Curry shattered most of the 3 point records, making the shot a centerpiece of modern basketball.
Another fun fact: the international game (FIBA) added its own three-point line in 1984. Since then, countries worldwide have developed sharp shooters to compete on the global stage.
# Common Misconceptions and Warnings
WATCH OUT: One of the most widespread errors is attributing the 3 point shot exclusively to the NBA or even to a single player. In reality, the shot’s journey is a collective innovation involving multiple leagues, rule-makers, and players across the United States. Another trap? Believing the distance and rules are universal. In fact, NCAA, NBA, and FIBA all set different distances for the three-point arc! That’s why shooters making threes in college might need time to adjust at the pro level.
# Real-World Insights: Team and Player Experience
According to my experience working with aspiring players and coaches, adapting to the three-point shot is more than just stepping back. Teams must rework defensive schemes, invest in shooting drills, and even rethink player recruitment. Three-point proficiency now often separates winning teams from the rest.
# How to Master the Three-Point Shot: Step-by-Step Guide
Want to become a lethal shooter from beyond the arc? Here’s a quick guide anyone can follow.
1. Perfect Your Shooting Form: Nail down a consistent release and follow-through.
2. Watch Your Footwork: Position feet shoulder-width and square to the basket.
3. Build Arm and Core Strength: Use resistance bands and weights for strong, stable shots.
4. Practice Game-Speed Shots: Simulate real-game pace and intensity.
5. Analyze and Adapt: Record your session, then make data-driven adjustments.
# How Does the 3 Point Shot Differ Across Leagues?
If you think all three-point shots are the same, think again! Different leagues set distinctive distances and rules:
| League | 3-Point Arc Distance (Feet) | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| NBA | 23.75 top, 22 corners | – |
| NCAA | 22.15 top, 21.65 corners | Slightly shorter arc, college pace |
| FIBA | 22.15 | International rules, smaller courts |
This variety means a player who’s automatic in college may need some transition time to NBA or FIBA play.
# Final Shocker: Did You Know?
Three-point specialists are now among the league’s highest-paid players. Teams spend millions scouting and signing reliable shooters. No wonder the question “who invented the 3 point shot” keeps coming up—it’s a rule that changed the economics and soul of the sport.
# Essential 3 Point Shot Checklist
– Learn the real inventors: Not just NBA, but ABL and ABA pioneers.
– Discover league differences: NBA, NCAA, and FIBA distances vary.
– Study impact on history: How it shifted player roles, tactics, and records.
– Practice effectively: Prioritize form, footwork, and pace.
– Avoid common myths: Don’t blame or credit the wrong league or person.
– Track new trends: Analytics and shooting continue to evolve the game.
– Stay inspired: Watch legends and experiment based on your analysis.
Curious about “who invented the 3 point shot”? Now you know the real history—and why it matters more than you might have imagined. It’s the shot that transformed basketball forever.
