The 3-point line is now one of the most important elements of modern basketball. But it wasn’t always part of the NBA. In fact, the league resisted adding it for decades, believing it was a gimmick.
Today, it defines offensive strategy — spacing, analytics, and superstar shooting. Here’s the complete history of why the NBA added the 3-pointer and how it evolved.
Contents
1. The ABA Invents the 3-Pointer (1967)
The 3-point shot was first introduced in the American Basketball Association (ABA) in 1967.
ABA’s goal
- Make the game more exciting
- Increase scoring
- Showcase perimeter talent
It quickly became a fan favorite.
On Episode 6, @KingJames and @jj_redick dive into how three-point shooting changed the way basketball is played. Here, they talk about the adoption of early shot clock and step-back three-pointers in today’s NBA.
— Mind the Game (@mindthegamepod) May 1, 2024
Watch: https://t.co/yFfYkUFRi3 pic.twitter.com/mkJkIPOmGg
2. The NBA Initially Rejects It
Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, the NBA viewed the 3-pointer as unnecessary flash. They believed traditional basketball already had enough scoring and didn’t want “trick shots” affecting outcomes.
3. The NBA Merger & a Major Turning Point (1976)
When the ABA and NBA merged in 1976, the NBA inherited many ABA innovations. Still, the league waited several years before adopting the 3-pointer.
4. NBA Officially Adopts the 3-Point Line (1979–80 Season)
The NBA added the 3-point line for the 1979–1980 season.
Reasons for adoption
- Improve spacing
- Encourage long-range shooting
- Increase scoring excitement
- Appeal to younger fans
The first NBA 3-pointer was made by Boston Celtics guard Chris Ford on October 12, 1979.
5. Evolution Into Today’s Game
The 3-pointer remained a novelty until the 1990s, when shooters like Reggie Miller elevated its importance. By the 2010s, analytics showed that 3-pointers were more efficient than long twos.
Today, teams like the Warriors and Celtics shoot 30–50 threes per game.