During the 2010s, the NBA went through big changes, starting with the 3-point revolution that switched how the game is played and increased the importance of shooters and floor spacers.
Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson revolutionized the game using long-range shots, winning championships, and delighting fans with their shooting talents, which put them on a different level around the league.
Right now, the 3-point has become one of the most important shots in the league, and the Splash Brothers are responsible for that. Moreover, Damian Lillard believes he played a role in the 3-point revolution, too.
Talking with AP reporter Janie McCauley, Lillard took credit for how the game has changed in the past couple of years.
“The game has really changed, starting with guys like Steph and myself. The 3-pointers of the history of the game when we talk about the Larry Birds, Mark Prices, and Reggie Miller, you look at the numbers and they were three 3-pointers attempted per game, two and a half 3s attempted per game. When you look at ours not only nine, ten, eleven, 3s per game, but just shooting it from so much deeper off the bounce and transition. You know, just so many different ways that we’re doing it. The game has come a long way as far as shooting.”
"I think the game has really changed… starting with guys like Steph and myself.”@Dame_Lillard on the history of the three-pointer
(via @JanieMcCAP)pic.twitter.com/x5P3Rp1XFR
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 11, 2021
It’s true that the new generations of shooters like Trae Young and Tyler Herro were inspired by players like Curry, Thompson and Lillard, just like they were inspired by Ray Allen, Larry Bird, or Reggie Miller. However, the latter took the 3-pointers to the next level, extending their range every season, making logo shots look like a free throw for them.
This trend doesn’t seem to be ending anytime soon, and the younger generations will be full of shooters, too. Things have changed in the league since the first season the 3-point line was implemented. Right now, this shot is extremely valued around the league, which will open new opportunities for different types of players.
