“Has the Change in the College Three Point Area Affected the Shot Percentage This Season Versus Last Season?”
J.T. Adams
Chemistry I Trimester 2
January 26, 2009
The sport of basketball, which was created by James Naismith in 1891, has survived many changes throughout the years. (Bellis, 1) One of the most recent changes has been a major change in the floor area that is considered a “Three Point Shot.” The information for this research regarding that change shows that there is definitely a difference in the number of shots taken versus shots made from a statistical viewpoint.
After the first weekend of Division I college basketball, the number of three-point shots attempted and made are down slightly versus last season as a whole. (Moody 1)
It's only a difference of 12 inches, but the 3-point rule change that created a longer 3-point shot in men's college basketball might be enough to affect the game, at least based on statistics collected during the first weekend of games.
College basketball coaches have lobbied for the past few years for a three-point rule change, and they finally received their wish entering the 2008-2009 season. The new line measures 20 feet, 9 inches from the basket, which is one foot farther away than the previous 3-point line. Any player who makes a field goal with his feet last touching the floor behind the line receives three points. Field goals made when the player's feet last touched the floor while standing on or inside the line are worth two points.
The coaches who favored pushing the line back have a few different hopes for the 3-point rule change. First, teams will take fewer 3-point shots, especially players who aren't good outside shooters. Second, defenses will be forced to guard farther out on the floor, leading to more room to maneuver near the basket and more opportunities for two-point baskets. Finally, with more room inside, physical play might be lessened, leading to fewer fouls. (Table 1)...