The NBA has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades, with the 3-point shot emerging as a cornerstone of modern basketball strategy. This shift has led to numerous records being set and broken, particularly in the realm of 3-point shooting. In this article, we will delve into the current state of 3-point shooting in the NBA, focusing on the team record for most 3-pointers made in a single game.
The Rise of the 3-Point Era
When the NBA introduced the 3-point line in the 1979-80 season, it was met with skepticism. Coaches and players alike questioned its impact on the game, with some viewing it as a gimmick. However, over the years, the 3-point shot has evolved from a desperation heave to a fundamental aspect of team offense. Today, teams are taking more 3-pointers than ever before, driven by the realization that the 3-point shot is an efficient way to score.
The Current Landscape
The data is clear: the NBA has become a 3-point-centric league. In the 2010-11 season, only 22.2% of field goal attempts were 3-pointers. Fast-forward to recent seasons, and this number has skyrocketed to nearly 40%. This trend is not limited to the NBA; college basketball has also seen a significant increase in 3-point attempts, with some teams launching over 50% of their field goal attempts from beyond the arc.
The Team Record: Milwaukee Bucks
The record for the most 3-pointers made by a team in a single game is held by the Milwaukee Bucks. On December 29, 2020, the Bucks achieved this milestone by sinking an impressive 29 three-pointers in a game. This record has stood the test of time, despite the increasing prevalence of 3-point shooting across the league. The closest attempts to break this record include the Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets, each making 28 three-pointers in separate games.
Notable Performances
While the Bucks hold the team record, individual performances have also been remarkable. Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors holds the record for the most 3-pointers made by a player in a single game, hitting 14 three-pointers against the Chicago Bulls on October 29, 2018. This performance is a testament to the incredible shooting abilities of modern NBA players.
Impact on Game Strategy
The proliferation of 3-point shooting has significantly altered game strategies. Teams now prioritize spacing the floor with multiple 3-point threats, which not only increases scoring efficiency but also creates opportunities for drives, cuts, and post-ups. This shift has led to a more dynamic and fast-paced game, where teams are constantly looking to exploit defensive weaknesses from beyond the arc.
Defensive Adjustments
While the offense has adapted to the 3-point era, defenses have also evolved. Protecting the rim remains a top priority, but teams must now balance this with the need to contest 3-point shots. The Milwaukee Bucks and Toronto Raptors, for example, have shown that elite rim protection can coexist with allowing a high volume of 3-point attempts. This balance is crucial in today’s game, where a single misstep can lead to a barrage of 3-pointers.
Conclusion
The NBA’s 3-point revolution has transformed the game into a high-scoring, fast-paced spectacle. The record for most 3-pointers made by a team in a single game, held by the Milwaukee Bucks, stands as a testament to this shift. As teams continue to emphasize 3-point shooting, we can expect to see more records broken and new strategies emerge. The game is evolving, and the numbers tell us why: the 3-point shot is here to stay, and it’s changing basketball forever.
In the modern NBA, the ability to shoot from distance is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Teams that fail to adapt to this new reality risk being left behind. The Bucks’ record serves as a benchmark for what is possible when a team commits fully to the 3-point strategy. As the league continues to push the boundaries of what is achievable from beyond the arc, fans can look forward to an exciting and unpredictable future for basketball.