Restricted Area Arc Extended to 4 Feet

The Rule Change

The no-charge semicircle beneath the basket was extended to a 4-foot radius, expanding the area where defenders could not draw offensive foul charges. The larger arc gave offensive players more protection when attacking the rim.

Statistical Impact

Further discouraged defenders from sliding under airborne players near the basket. The expanded arc opened up more space for drives and layups, aligning with the league's broader push to increase scoring and protect attacking players. Combined with the hand-checking crackdown two years later, it tilted the game toward offense.

3-Year Average: Before vs. After