The 3-point shot is one of the most iconic shots in basketball, and it has been a staple of the game since its inception in 1979. But just how far is a 3-point shot? The answer is not as simple as you may think.
The Distance of a 3-Point Shot
The distance of a 3-point shot is dependent on the court that it is being taken on. A regulation 3-point shot is typically taken from behind the 3-point line, which is located at a distance of 22 feet from the basket in the NBA and FIBA. This distance is measured from the front of the rim to the back of the 3-point line.
In the WNBA, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 20 feet 9 inches from the basket. This distance is measured from the front of the rim to the back of the 3-point line.
In high school basketball, the distance of the 3-point line is dependent on the court size. In a regulation-sized court, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 19 feet 9 inches from the basket. This distance is measured from the front of the rim to the back of the 3-point line.
In college basketball, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 20 feet 9 inches from the basket. This distance is measured from the front of the rim to the back of the 3-point line.
In the NBA, FIBA, WNBA, high school, and college basketball, the distance of the 3-point line is measured from the front of the rim to the back of the 3-point line.
The Effect of Court Size
The size of the court can have a significant effect on the distance of the 3-point shot. On a regulation-sized court, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 22 feet from the basket. However, on a smaller court, the 3-point line is located at a shorter distance from the basket.
For example, on a half-court, the 3-point line is typically located at a distance of 19 feet from the basket. This is because the court is smaller, and the distance between the basket and the 3-point line is shorter.
On a full-court, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 23 feet 9 inches from the basket. This is because the court is larger, and the distance between the basket and the 3-point line is longer.
The Effect of Player Height
The height of the player taking the shot can also have an effect on the distance of the 3-point shot. On a regulation-sized court, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 22 feet from the basket. However, if the player taking the shot is taller than average, the distance of the shot will be slightly longer.
For example, if the player taking the shot is 6 feet tall, the distance of the 3-point shot will be approximately 23 feet. This is because the player’s height will cause the ball to travel a slightly longer distance.
The Effect of the Angle of the Shot
The angle of the shot can also have an effect on the distance of the 3-point shot. On a regulation-sized court, the 3-point line is located at a distance of 22 feet from the basket. However, if the angle of the shot is greater than average, the distance of the shot will be slightly longer.
For example, if the angle of the shot is 45 degrees, the distance of the 3-point shot will be approximately 24 feet. This is because the angle of the shot will cause the ball to travel a slightly longer distance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the distance of a 3-point shot is dependent on the court that it is being taken on, the size of the court, the height of the player taking the shot, and the angle of the shot. On a regulation-sized court, the 3-point line is typically located at a distance of 22 feet from the basket. However, if the court is smaller, the player taking the shot is taller than average, or the angle of the shot is greater than average, the distance of the 3-point shot will be slightly longer.