When Did the 3 Point Shot Begin? The Surprising History and Essential Guide for Basketball Fans

# When Did the 3 Point Shot Begin? The Surprising History and Essential Guide for Basketball Fans

Have you ever watched a modern basketball game and wondered: when did the 3 point shot begin? This single rule has totally transformed the sport, creating magic moments from Steph Curry, Reggie Miller, and countless others. But how did it all start—and why? Let’s dive deep into the incredible story, supported by hard facts, expert insight, and practical tips every fan should know.

# WHAT IS THE 3 POINT SHOT?

Before answering when did the 3 point shot begin, let’s clarify what it is. The 3 point shot awards three points for long-range baskets made from beyond a specific arc on the court, fundamentally changing team strategy and player skills. Its introduction made outside shooters some of the game’s most valuable assets.

# EVOLUTION OF THE 3 POINT LINE: WHERE DID IT ORIGINATE?

Many casual fans believe the NBA invented the three-pointer, but that’s not true. The first official use of the three-point line happened in the American Basketball League (ABL) in the 1961-62 season. However, the ABL dissolved quickly, so it didn’t stick.

The real boost came in the American Basketball Association (ABA), which used the three-point shot from its start in 1967, branding it as the “home run” of basketball. Players and crowds loved the excitement, prompting adoption elsewhere.

It wasn’t until the 1979-80 NBA season that the three-point shot entered the world’s most famous league. That’s right—the NBA didn’t have it during Wilt Chamberlain or Bill Russell’s dominance. The NCAA (college basketball) adopted it nationwide in the 1986-87 season, despite earlier experimentation by some conferences.

# TIMELINE OF THE 3 POINT SHOT: KEY DATES

To really visualize the journey and fully grasp when did the 3 point shot begin, let’s look at a quick comparison table:

(来源: NBA.com, NCAA.org)

# WHY WAS THE 3 POINT SHOT INTRODUCED?

So, beyond the when did the 3 point shot begin question, people often ask why. The primary reasons were to boost scoring, open up space on the floor, and add an electrifying element for fans. Tight defenses in the 1970s led to dull, low-scoring games—it was a real problem for TV ratings!

In the ABA, three-pointers instantly changed game tactics. Teams had to guard the perimeter, and offenses became less predictable. When the NBA took notice, they realized it could revive excitement in their own league. And it worked: according to Statista, NBA three-point attempts per game skyrocketed from just 2.8 per team in 1980 to more than 35 by 2023 (来源: Statista.com).

# IMPACT OF THE 3 POINT LINE: MODERN GAME-CHANGER

Here’s where it gets fascinating. The 3 point line has redefined basketball, both in terms of individual player value and team success. For example, teams like the Golden State Warriors built dynasties around sharp shooting. This forced traditional big men either to shoot from distance or risk becoming obsolete.

NBA Finals games today often hinge on which team is hottest from three. Even at colleges and high schools, coaches drill players on spacing and outside shooting constantly.

As a practical note, based on my experience coaching youth basketball, teaching the mental discipline and technique of the three-pointer is just as important as athleticism.

# HOW TO MASTER THE 3 POINT SHOT: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Ready to try sinking a three yourself? Follow this actionable plan to boost your long-range skills.

STEP ONE: Find the Right Stance
Position your feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent slightly. Comfort and balance first.

STEP TWO: Perfect Your Grip
Hold the ball with your shooting hand under and guide hand on the side. Keep your wrist loose.

STEP THREE: Focus Your Aim
Lock in on the center back of the rim or just above for a soft touch.

STEP FOUR: Smooth Release
Jump straight up, extend your arm fully, flick your wrist, and hold your follow-through. Consistency beats brute force.

STEP FIVE: Practice with Purpose
Drill from several spots behind the arc. Record makes and misses to track progress.

Over time, you’ll notice more shots dropping if you maintain great mechanics and confidence.

# COMMON MISTAKES AND CAUTIONS

**WARNING:** Rushing to shoot threes without developing form can hinder progress. Many young players focus only on distance and forget about shooting fundamentals.

**DON’T:**
— Sacrifice accuracy for range. Speed will come with time.
— Ignore the importance of footwork and balance.
— Let frustration take over after misses. Mental resilience is vital.

# FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE 3 POINT SHOT

**Q: WHEN DID THE 3 POINT SHOT BEGIN WORLDWIDE?**
While its first appearance was in American leagues, FIBA adopted the three-pointer in 1984 for international play, with varying distances used in different regions.

**Q: HAS THE DISTANCE CHANGED OVER TIME?**
Yes, both the NBA and NCAA have adjusted their three-point line distances for balance between challenge and excitement. For example, the NCAA moved its line back in 2019.

**Q: IS THE 3 POINT SHOT HERE TO STAY?**
Absolutely. There’s no sign of it leaving—if anything, leagues continue to reward great shooters and innovate around the three-point line.

# REAL-WORLD EFFECTS: HOW THE 3 POINT SHOT TRANSFORMED THE SPORT

After the NBA introduced the three-point line, player types and strategies changed rapidly. From Larry Bird’s first season with the three-pointer to the current era of Steph Curry, the league has become a shooter’s paradise.

A study by Basketball Reference confirms that teams making more threes win about 68 percent of the time in the playoffs since 2016 (来源: Basketball Reference). This trend influences drafting, team building, and player development worldwide.

# ACTIONABLE CHECKLIST: BECOME A 3 POINT EXPERT

– Learn the timeline: Know when did the 3 point shot begin in each league
– Watch legendary moments: Study Curry, Ray Allen, and classic ABA highlights
– Analyze team stats: Check shot distribution and game outcomes
– Practice your shot: Use our five-step method for improvement
– Stay updated: Follow rule changes and new strategies as they develop

The next time a big three-pointer splashes in your game or on TV, you’ll not only know when did the 3 point shot begin—but why it matters and how you can master it. Get out there and let it fly!