Lane Widened from 6 to 12 Feet

The Rule Change

The lane was doubled in width from 6 to 12 feet, the first of three widenings in NBA history. This was a direct response to George Mikan's dominance — the Minneapolis Lakers center was virtually unstoppable camping near the basket in a narrow lane.

Statistical Impact

Pushed dominant centers further from the basket and created more driving space for guards and forwards. The 'Mikan Rule' established a lasting precedent: the NBA would modify its playing surface to prevent any single player from breaking the competitive balance. The lane would be widened again to 16 feet in 1966 in response to Wilt Chamberlain.

3-Year Average: Before vs. After