Three-Point Line Introduced

The Rule Change

The NBA adopted the three-point line at 23 feet 9 inches (22 feet in the corners), borrowed from the ABA. Initially dismissed as a gimmick, it would eventually become the most transformative rule in modern basketball.

Statistical Impact

Adoption was glacial at first — teams averaged just 2.8 three-point attempts per game in 1979-80. The line's true impact wouldn't be felt for over a decade. But it introduced a geometric advantage that would eventually reshape every aspect of offensive strategy.

3-Year Average: Before vs. After