NBA adding 2 deeper shots to Three-Point Contest
Expect to see more attempts from closer to the logo at All-Star Weekend.
The NBA is altering the format of the Three-Point Contest for All-Star Weekend, adding two deeper locations to shoot from, according to The Associated Press' Tim Reynolds. These spots will be six feet further from the 3-point line and will be located between the elbow and top of the key. The two shots will be worth three points each.
Players will also now receive 70 seconds to complete each round as opposed to 60. They will also take a total of 27 shots, up from the customary 25, while the two added locations will be shot with a green ball.
The league later confirmed the additions to the event.
The “MTN DEW Zone” includes two locations positioned 6 feet behind the 3-point line and holds one special green ball, the “3-Ball.” Shots made with the green ball are worth three points. #MtnDew3PT pic.twitter.com/y4aaHTGqw6
— 2020 NBA All-Star (@NBAAllStar) February 5, 2020
The NBA is making the change due to an increase in shots from further out in recent seasons, according to Reynolds. Players have taken close to 300 shots from at least 30 feet this year, as Reynolds notes, which already exceeds the number from 2018-19.
Damian Lillard, Buddy Hield, Davis Bertans, Devonte' Graham, Duncan Robinson, Trae Young, Zach LaVine, and Joe Harris will be competing in the event on Feb. 15. Harris is the defending Three-Point Contest champion.