We wanted to share a couple interesting pieces of data with you . . .

The 3 point shot came to the NBA in 1979-1980. 

That season, the Boston Celtics attempted 422 3’s, or 5.1 per game.

In the 2024-2025 season, the Celtics attempted 3952 3’s, or 48.2 per game.

The difference is astronomical. And in many ways, it makes sense. 3’s are a tool that all teams should be using.

And yet, the focus on 3 point shooting can be deceiving. How so?

Because as great as 3’s are, they aren’t (and likely never will be) the best shot in the game.

The rim is still king when it comes to the most efficient shot in basketball.

Check out this data from the 2023-2024 season. The first image breaks down the court into different areas, starting at the rim and moving out. (Corner 3’s are given their own category because those are shorter 3 point shots.)

The second image shows the points per attempt. In other words, a shot at the rim is worth 1.33 points (meaning it is converted roughly 66% of the time).

Even the shorter corner 3’s can’t match that, with a value of 1.18 per attempt (meaning they are made roughly 39% of the time).

What does this all mean? It’s a reminder to not get so caught up in the 3 point craze that you neglect the best shot on the court - a layup!

These numbers would be even more favorable at younger levels, where 3 point shooting is much worse.

One more thing to keep in mind when it comes to 3’s . . . 

The best 3’s are the ones that come after a paint touch. Why? Because the drive draws help defenders, creating more space for the shot. Additionally, the shooter doesn't have to turn their shoulders, making it an easier shot.

So, how should this impact your coaching?

• Base your offense around attacking the paint

• Teach players to read if they have an advantage when they get to the paint

  • If so, finish!

  • If not, kick out for an open shot or reattack

If your offense can do those couple things, you’ll be nearly impossible to guard!

Comments Most Likes First   Oldest First   Newest First Thorsten says: 8/10/2025 at 6:31:56 PM It seems to be drives first and then corner 3s from what I have seen lately on international level. My focus is FIBA and Youth. Not NBA/ I can only recommend to re-watch the FIBA Spain - France u18 Final this year (free on Youtube). No spoilers. Watch it without the final score if you can. Worth it! Or the other highlight game like Germany - Lithuania. Also worth watching. What I saw is this: drives, drives , drives or 3s. I think I noticed this pattern lately. High speed slot to basket drives with kick to corner 3s or pass in the paint to diving corner from the opposite site. What is new is how far out they start and the speed to basket. Super hard to defend. All else seem to be fall back or secondary options in youth basketball (in Europe). Like     login   register

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