7 Surprising Facts About When Did Three Points Start in Basketball (Ultimate Guide)

# Introduction

Basketball fans often ask—when did three points start in basketball? While we’re used to this game-changing shot today, the history behind it is filled with drama, experimentation, and surprises. This deep-dive unpacks when, why, and how the three-point line officially became part of basketball, using real data and fascinating stories. If you’ve ever wondered how this global game evolved, you’re in the right place.

# The Origins: Why Was the Three-Point Line Invented?

Before the three-point shot, basketball was all about close-range play. Games could get jammed in the paint, with little incentive for outside shooters. The three-point line was created to shake things up.

The first recognized use of a three-point line in an organized game happened in 1945 between Columbia and Fordham. However, this was only a one-time experiment and didn’t catch on yet.

The real push came from the American Basketball League (ABL) in the early 1960s. But when did three points start in basketball in a permanent way? The ABL adopted the shot in 1961, hoping to speed up the game and reward skill. Unfortunately, the league folded after two seasons.

# When Did the Three-Point Line Officially Enter Professional Basketball?

The three-point shot first became a lasting rule in the American Basketball Association (ABA) in the 1967-1968 season. The ABA wanted to stand out from the NBA, so they introduced the three-pointer as a “crowd-pleaser”.

Here’s a quick comparison between key leagues and how they responded to the three-point shot:

So, for those searching, “when did three points start in basketball?” — the answer depends on the league. In the NBA, it was **1979**, following the NBA/ABA merger. In FIBA international play, it arrived in **1984**.

# How Did Players and Fans React?

When the NBA announced before the 1979-80 season that the three-point shot was official, reactions were mixed. Old-school coaches doubted its value. Some even thought it might undermine the beauty of the game.

However, innovative coaches quickly saw its potential. Chris Ford of the Boston Celtics became the first player to hit a three-pointer in an NBA regular season game on October 12, 1979 (source: NBA.com).

The initial numbers were low—NBA teams averaged less than one three-point shot made per game in the first few seasons (source: Basketball-Reference.com). Today, this figure is closer to **13 per game** (as of the 2022-23 season). Clearly, the landscape completely changed.

According to my experience with player development, younger players increasingly focus on long-range shooting, viewing the three-point shot as a must-have skill.

# How Has the Three-Point Shot Changed Basketball Strategy?

The introduction of three points in basketball totally transformed team play. Spacing widened, defenses were forced to adapt, and new roles like “stretch-four” forwards appeared. Data shows teams now take about **40 percent** of their shots from behind the arc (source: ESPN Analytics).

Here’s a step-by-step guide to how the three-point line has impacted the evolution of basketball tactics:

1. Coaches started designing plays specifically to create open threes.
2. Floor spacing became a premium asset to maximize shooting efficiency.
3. Centers and big men trained to add outside shots to their game.
4. Defenses developed new schemes, like switching and extended zones.
5. Analytics departments now key in on three-point percentages for signings.

No wonder three-point records are broken so often—modern stars like Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, and Klay Thompson have pushed the boundaries.

# Comparing the Three-Point Line Around the World

Basketball isn’t universal when it comes to the three-point distance. Different leagues use different measurements. Here’s a handy table for perspective:

# Key Milestones: Timeline of When Did Three Points Start in Basketball

Let’s break down the major moments related to the three-point shot:

1. 1945: First experimental use (Columbia vs. Fordham)
2. 1961: ABL officially adopts three-point line
3. 1967: ABA makes the three-pointer permanent
4. 1979: NBA includes the three-point shot
5. 1984: FIBA introduces the three-point line globally
6. 1986: NCAA Men’s game adds the three-point line
7. 1987: NCAA Women’s game follows suit

These key points help answer “when did three points start in basketball” in every major format.

# Common Myths and Mistakes About the Three-Point Line

WARNING: A lot of fans and even some players misunderstand the three-point rule. Here are three frequent misconceptions:

– Some believe the three-point line was always part of the NBA. Actually, it wasn’t until 1979.
– Many assume all leagues use the same distance. In fact, every major league has its own measurement.
– There’s a belief that the three-point shot was instantly popular. The truth is, early adoption was slow, and only modern play made it “mainstream”.

# Step-by-Step: How to Measure and Mark a Three-Point Line at Home

Want to add a three-point arc to your home court? Here’s how:

1. Find the center of your basket.
2. Use a measuring tape to mark the distance required (23 ft 9 in for NBA, 22 ft 1.75 in for FIBA).
3. Drive a small stake at the center, tie a string to it, and attach chalk to the other end.
4. Carefully swing the string in an arc to mark the curve.
5. Use paint or tape to go over the chalk line for a permanent arc.

# Why Does Knowing “When Did Three Points Start in Basketball” Matter?

Understanding the history—and the reasons—behind the three-point line adds real depth to watching or playing basketball. It reminds us how innovation, risk, and creativity drive every great sport forward.

When people discuss “when did three points start in basketball”, they’re really talking about basketball’s openness to change. Trends, player development, and tactical shifts all trace their roots back to that historic rule change.

# Conclusion

The three-point shot began as a radical test and grew into basketball’s defining feature. Ever since the question “when did three points start in basketball” became relevant, the game has never looked back. Today, the three-point line is as iconic as slam dunks and buzzer-beaters.

Stay curious and the next time someone asks about the three-point line, you can impress them with real data, key dates, and a few surprising stories.

# Practical Checklist: The Essential Three-Point Line Recap

– Identify which league or era you’re asking about.
– Remember: NBA adopted the three-point shot in 1979.
– Recognize the ABA as the early innovator (1967).
– FIBA uses a shorter arc than the NBA.
– Distances differ between NBA, FIBA, NCAA Men, and NCAA Women.

– Modern basketball heavily relies on the three-pointer.
– Players specialize in three-point shooting skills.
– Courts can be marked for three-pointers at home.
– Early adoption was slow; now it’s a key part of the game.
– Never assume all leagues share the same rules.

With this knowledge, you’re now an expert on when did three points start in basketball!