3-point line

The 3-point line is a designated arc on a basketball court that determines whether a shot counts as a three-point basket. When a player shoots the ball from beyond this line, their basket scores three points instead of the usual two. The line is typically about 22 to 23.75 feet away from the hoop, depending on the level of play. Its purpose is to encourage longer-range shooting and add strategic complexity to the game. Shots taken from inside the line count as two points, making the distinction important for game strategy and scoring.