NBA Record: Most 3-Point Attempts In A Game (Team)

The modern NBA is defined by the ubiquitous three-point shot. It wasn't always this way, though. There was a time when teams barely considered the three-pointer a viable offensive weapon. Now, it's a staple, and teams are hoisting them up at an unprecedented rate. So, what NBA team holds the record for the most three-point attempts in a single game? Let's dive into the numbers and explore the evolution of the three-point shot in the NBA.

The Evolution of the Three-Point Shot

Before we reveal the record holder, it’s important to understand how we got here. The three-point line was first introduced to the NBA in the 1979-80 season. Initially, it was viewed as a novelty, a gimmick. Teams and players weren't quite sure how to utilize it effectively. In the early days, coaches were hesitant to encourage players to shoot from beyond the arc, preferring the more traditional inside game and mid-range shots.

However, as the game evolved, so did the understanding and appreciation of the three-pointer's value. Coaches and players began to realize that it could be a potent weapon, capable of quickly changing the momentum of a game. The likes of Larry Bird, Dale Ellis, and Reggie Miller gradually showcased the potential of the long-range shot, inspiring a new generation of players to hone their skills from beyond the arc.

Over the years, rule changes, such as defensive three-second violations and the elimination of hand-checking, further opened up the game and created more space for perimeter players. This, in turn, led to an increase in three-point attempts. The arrival of Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors revolutionized the game, with their emphasis on ball movement, spacing, and, of course, the three-point shot. They demonstrated that a team built around long-range shooting could not only be successful but also dominate the league. This sparked a league-wide trend, with teams scrambling to emulate the Warriors' success by prioritizing three-point shooting in their offensive schemes.

Today, the three-pointer is an integral part of virtually every team's offense. Coaches actively encourage players to shoot from beyond the arc, and teams often design plays specifically to create open looks for their shooters. The analytics revolution has further solidified the importance of the three-pointer, with teams recognizing its efficiency and high expected point value. As a result, the number of three-point attempts continues to rise, and it's not uncommon to see teams launching 40 or even 50 three-pointers in a single game.

The Current Record Holder: Houston Rockets

Alright, guys, let’s get to the heart of the matter. Which team holds the NBA record for the most three-point attempts in a single game? The answer is the Houston Rockets. On January 26, 2019, the Rockets, under the guidance of coach Mike D'Antoni and led by stars James Harden and Chris Paul, attempted a whopping 70 three-pointers against the Orlando Magic. Yes, you read that right: 70!

This wasn't just a random occurrence, though. The Rockets, under D'Antoni, were known for their analytically driven offense that heavily emphasized the three-pointer and layups, avoiding mid-range shots as much as possible. This approach, often referred to as "Moreyball" (named after then-general manager Daryl Morey), was predicated on the idea that these two types of shots were the most efficient ways to score in the NBA.

In that game against the Magic, the Rockets connected on 26 of their 70 attempts, resulting in a 37.1% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. While that percentage isn't spectacular, the sheer volume of attempts is what set the record. James Harden led the way with 15 attempts, followed by Eric Gordon with 12. Other players like Danuel House Jr. and Austin Rivers also contributed to the barrage of three-point shots.

It’s also worth noting the context of that particular game. The Rockets were without several key players due to injuries, which likely contributed to their increased reliance on the three-point shot. They needed to find ways to generate offense, and launching a high volume of three-pointers was their chosen strategy. While they ultimately lost the game to the Magic, the Rockets etched their name into the NBA record books with their historic three-point attempt total. That game really cemented the Rocket's strategy and how committed they were to this style of play. No wonder they attempted 70, huh?

Other Notable High Three-Point Attempt Games

While the Houston Rockets hold the record for the most three-point attempts in a single game, several other teams have also come close to challenging that mark. Here are a few notable examples:

• Houston Rockets (Again!): The Rockets appear multiple times in the list of teams with the most three-point attempts in a game. This underscores their commitment to the three-point shot under coach Mike D'Antoni.
• Golden State Warriors: As mentioned earlier, the Warriors revolutionized the game with their emphasis on three-point shooting. They have had several games where they have launched a high volume of three-pointers, often led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
• Milwaukee Bucks: Under coach Mike Budenholzer, the Bucks have also embraced the three-point shot as a key component of their offense. With players like Giannis Antetokounmpo attracting defensive attention, the Bucks have been able to generate open looks for their shooters from beyond the arc.

These teams, and others, demonstrate the growing importance of the three-point shot in the modern NBA. They are willing to launch a high volume of three-pointers, even if the percentage isn't always the highest, because they recognize the overall value and efficiency of the shot.

Factors Contributing to High Three-Point Attempts

Several factors can contribute to a team attempting a high number of three-pointers in a game:

• Coaching Philosophy: Some coaches, like Mike D'Antoni, have a strong belief in the three-point shot and actively encourage their players to shoot from beyond the arc. Their offensive systems are often designed to create open looks for shooters.
• Player Personnel: Teams with skilled three-point shooters are more likely to attempt a high volume of three-pointers. Players like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and James Harden have the ability to make shots from anywhere on the court, which encourages their teams to give them the green light to shoot from beyond the arc.
• Game Situation: The score, time remaining, and opponent can all influence a team's three-point attempt rate. For example, a team that is trailing late in a game may be more likely to launch a barrage of three-pointers in an attempt to quickly close the gap.
• Defensive Scheme: The opponent's defensive scheme can also play a role. If a team is packing the paint and forcing opponents to shoot from the perimeter, the opposing team may be more inclined to attempt a higher number of three-pointers.
• Injuries: As seen in the Rockets' record-breaking game, injuries to key players can sometimes lead to an increase in three-point attempts. Teams may need to rely more on the three-point shot to generate offense if they are missing key players who can score inside.

The Future of Three-Point Shooting

So, what does the future hold for three-point shooting in the NBA? It's hard to say for sure, but it's likely that the trend of increasing three-point attempts will continue. As analytics become even more sophisticated and teams continue to search for ways to gain an edge, the three-point shot will likely remain a central part of offensive strategies.

We may even see teams experimenting with even longer-range shots, perhaps even beyond the current three-point line. Players are already pushing the boundaries of shooting range, and it's not uncommon to see players like Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard pull up from well beyond the arc. It's possible that the NBA could eventually consider moving the three-point line back or even adding a four-point line to further incentivize long-range shooting.

Of course, there's also the possibility that the league could see a shift back towards a more balanced offensive approach. As teams become increasingly reliant on the three-point shot, defenses may adapt and find new ways to counter it. This could lead to a renewed emphasis on inside scoring, mid-range shots, and post play. Only time will tell how the game will continue to evolve, but one thing is certain: the three-point shot will continue to play a major role in the NBA for years to come.

Conclusion

The Houston Rockets hold the NBA record for the most three-point attempts in a single game with a staggering 70 attempts. This record is a testament to the evolution of the three-point shot and its increasing importance in the modern NBA. While other teams have come close, the Rockets' mark remains a high bar to clear. As the game continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if any team can break this record in the future. The three-point shot is here to stay, folks, and it will continue to shape the way the game is played for years to come! Who knows what the future holds, but wow, 70 attempts is crazy, right?