The NCAA is pushing out the 3-point line for men's basketball to match the international distance of 22 feet, 1 3/4 inches, the association announced Wednesday.
Division I will see the change take effect for the 2019-20 season, while Division II and Division III will adapt it in 2020-21 due to the potential financial impact of placing new lines on courts.
The change is being implemented for three primary reasons, according to the NCAA men's basketball rules committee. By extending the 3-point line, the association hopes to open up the lane for dribble and drive plays from the perimeter, slow the growing prevalence of 3-point shooting, and assist in offensive spacing by increasing the area that defenders have to cover.
The NCAA last moved the 3-point line prior to the 2008-09 season, extending it by one foot to 20 feet, 9 inches.
In addition to moving the 3-point line, the committee approved a change to shot-clock resets: Teams regaining control through offensive rebounds will now have 20 seconds to shoot rather than the full 30 seconds.
