The NBA’s three-point revolution, which began as a slow evolution in the 1980s, has reached an extreme state, fundamentally altering the way basketball is played at all levels. Once seen as a novelty shot, the three-pointer has become the cornerstone of modern offensive strategy. Teams are now taking—and making—three-pointers at unprecedented rates, leaving fans, analysts, and even players wondering: how many is too many?
The Rise of the Three-Point Era
The three-point line was introduced to the NBA in the 1979-80 season, but it took decades for teams to fully embrace its potential. Initially, teams averaged fewer than three attempts per game. By the 2010s, however, analytics-driven strategies demonstrated the efficiency of the shot, sparking a shift in team philosophies. The success of teams like the Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, showcased how the three-pointer could be a game-changer. In the 2022-23 season, NBA teams averaged nearly 35 three-point attempts per game—a sharp increase from just a decade prior.
Why So Many Threes?
The surge in three-point shooting is rooted in mathematics. A three-pointer is worth 50% more than a two-point shot, and data shows that even average three-point shooters can generate more points per possession than most mid-range specialists. Coaches and front offices have built teams around this principle, favoring players who can stretch the floor and create spacing. Big men who can shoot from beyond the arc are now in high demand, while traditional post play has diminished in prominence.
Moreover, the pace-and-space era has further encouraged the three-point explosion. Faster tempos lead to more possessions and, consequently, more opportunities for long-range attempts. Teams like the Houston Rockets under former coach Mike D’Antoni epitomized this philosophy, regularly attempting over 50 threes per game.
The Case Against Too Many Threes
Despite its efficiency, critics argue that the over-reliance on three-point shooting has come at a cost. For one, it has reduced the diversity of offensive strategies, making games feel repetitive and predictable. The art of mid-range shooting and post play, once staples of the game, has been largely sacrificed. Legends like Michael Jordan and Tim Duncan thrived in these areas, but today’s stars are often judged by their ability to shoot threes.
The entertainment factor is another concern. While a barrage of three-pointers can be exciting, it can also lead to lopsided, less competitive games. Teams that struggle from beyond the arc often find themselves out of contention quickly, as opponents exploit the high-variance nature of the shot.
Lastly, the physical toll on players cannot be ignored. The constant sprinting to defend the perimeter, coupled with the need for deep shooting range, has placed new demands on athletes’ conditioning and durability.
Finding a Balance
So, how many threes is too many? While there’s no definitive answer, some suggest that the game could benefit from a recalibration. Rule changes, such as extending the three-point line or tweaking defensive rules, might encourage more variety in offensive play. Additionally, emphasizing skills like passing, cutting, and mid-range shooting in youth basketball could foster a more balanced style at the professional level.
Conclusion
The NBA’s three-point revolution has undoubtedly reshaped the game, bringing new excitement and strategic depth. However, as the league continues to push the boundaries of long-range shooting, finding a balance will be crucial to preserving the diversity and artistry that make basketball a beloved sport.
