How far is the WNBA 3-Point line?

By Jocelyn Alano February 02, 2024 00:56

Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) has been a prominent platform for female basketball athletes, showcasing their remarkable skills and athleticism. One of the significant aspects of the game is the 3-point line, which adds an exciting dimension to the sport. In this article, we will explore the distance of the 3-point line in the WNBA and how it compares to other basketball leagues.

The WNBA 3-Point Line

In the WNBA, the distance of the 3-point line from the center of the basket is 22 feet 1.75 inches (6.75 meters) at the top of the key and 21.75 feet (6.63 meters) at the corners. This distance has remained consistent since the 2012 season. The WNBA's 3-point line is slightly closer than the NBA's, which is 23 feet 9 inches (7.24 meters) at the top of the key and 22 feet (6.71 meters) at the corners.

Evolution of the 3-Point Line in the WNBA

The 3-point line has undergone several changes since the inception of the WNBA. In the league's early years, the distance of the 3-point line was 19 feet, 9 inches (6.02 meters), which was the same as the men's college basketball line at that time. In 2012, the league extended the 3-point line to its current distance, aligning it more closely with the international standard.

Comparison with Other Leagues

When comparing the WNBA's 3-point line to other prominent basketball leagues, it's evident that the distance plays a significant role in the game. Here's how the WNBA's 3-point line compares to other leagues:

NBA: As mentioned earlier, the NBA's 3-point line is set at a distance of 23 feet 9 inches (7.24 meters) at the top of the key and 22 feet (6.71 meters) at the corners. This makes the NBA's 3-point line farther than the WNBA's, adding to the challenge for NBA players.
FIBA: The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has a 3-point line distance of 22.15 feet (6.75 meters) around the key. This is very close to the WNBA's distance, emphasizing the international influence on the WNBA's 3-point line placement.
NCAA: The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has a 3-point line distance of 20 feet, 9 inches (6.32 meters) for women's basketball. This distance is shorter than that of the WNBA, providing a contrasting dynamic for collegiate players.

Impact on the Game

The distance of the 3-point line significantly impacts the style of play and player performance. A closer 3-point line, as seen in the WNBA, can lead to more attempts and potentially higher shooting percentages from beyond the arc. It also allows for more aggressive perimeter play and strategic use of the 3-point shot in offensive schemes.

Player Adaptation and Strategy

The distance of the 3-point line requires players to adapt their shooting techniques and strategies accordingly. WNBA players must develop their shooting range and accuracy to effectively capitalize on the shorter 3-point line. Coaches also need to devise game plans that leverage the closer 3-point line to create scoring opportunities for their teams.

The WNBA's 3-point line, set at a distance of 22 feet 1.75 inches (6.75 meters) at the top of the key and 21.75 feet (6.63 meters) at the corners, plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the game. It distinguishes the WNBA's style of play from other leagues and influences player performance and strategic planning. Understanding the significance of the 3-point line is integral to appreciating the skill and strategy involved in WNBA basketball.