
The corner three-pointer is one of the most important shots in modern basketball, with many NBA teams incorporating it into their offensive strategies. Despite the small area from which to shoot, the corners account for a significant percentage of jump shot attempts. While some players find it challenging due to the lack of a backboard, others find it easier because of the angle it produces with the shooting arm. To shoot a three-point corner shot, the player's feet must be completely behind the three-point line, and several plays can be designed to create shot opportunities from this position.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from the hoop | 22 feet (6.71 meters) |
| Importance | One of the most important shots in modern basketball |
| Usage | Part of virtually every NBA offense |
| Percentage of total jump shot attempts | 19.6% |
| Shooter's feet position | Should be completely behind the three-point line |
| Difficulty | Easier than dead center |
| Angle | Produces a favorable angle with the shooting arm |
| Backboard usage | Great shooters don't use the backboard |
| Practice | Anyone can get good at it with enough practice |
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What You'll Learn

The corner 3-pointer is a signature shot for some players
The corner 3 has become increasingly popular in the NBA, with many teams incorporating it into their offense. In the 1997-98 season, corner 3s represented just 3% of all field goal attempts, with an average game including only 4.7 shots from the corner. By the 2021-22 season, corner 3s accounted for 10% of the league's shots, with an average game including 17.6 attempts. The increase in the popularity of the corner 3-pointer can be attributed to the data-driven evolution of gameplay in the 21st century.
The corner 3-pointer is an efficient shot that can open up the rest of the court for the team's star players. It is also a high-percentage shot, with a higher chance of success compared to other 3-point shots. This is because it is a slightly shorter distance and provides a more straightforward angle for the shooting arm. As a result, players who master the corner 3-pointer can become very dangerous on the court and pose a significant threat to the opposition.
Some players may find the corner 3-pointer more comfortable and natural than other shots. It can be a go-to move in their arsenal, one that they can rely on in crucial moments. By developing a signature shot like the corner 3, players can establish themselves as specialists and gain a reputation for their unique skill set. This can lead to greater recognition, strategic advantages, and even tactical adjustments by opposing teams to counter their signature move.
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The importance of depth perception
Depth perception is a vital skill in basketball, and it can greatly impact the outcome of the game. It is the ability to judge the distance and velocity of a target, which in basketball is often the hoop or other players.
Good depth perception allows players to make better decisions when shooting. It can minimize shots that are too long, fall short of the rim, or are not high enough. The corner three-pointer, for example, is considered one of the most important shots in modern basketball. It is a tiny fraction of the jump-shooting real estate on an NBA court but accounts for a large percentage of the league's total jump shot attempts. The backboard can be used as a guideline for this shot, but it can also mess with a player's depth perception, causing them to overshoot or undershoot.
Depth perception is also important for passing, especially when passing to players on the other side of the court. It helps players evaluate the defensive positions of their opponents and make better decisions about when to pass.
Additionally, depth perception is crucial for operating in congested areas with offensive and defensive players. Both offensive and defensive players must be aware of their surroundings, the movement of other players, and changes on the court. For example, an offensive player must be peripherally aware of the basketball they are dribbling, other players, and potential passing options while looking directly at their opponent's eyes.
Overall, depth perception is a vital skill for basketball players as it helps them make better decisions, improve their shooting and passing accuracy, and navigate congested areas on the court effectively.
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The role of the backboard
The backboard can play a crucial role when shooting a 3-point corner shot in basketball. The backboard can serve as a visual guideline and reference point to help align your shot. Some players find it easier to shoot corner 3s because they can use the edge of the backboard to create a consistent feeling when shooting. This can be especially helpful for shooters who are more comfortable with a specific angle or reference point.
However, it's important to note that not all players rely on the backboard when shooting 3-point corner shots. Great shooters often do not use the backboard, as they aim directly for the rim. Additionally, the heavy basketball and the force required to shoot from a 3-point range can make it challenging to use the backboard effectively. Hitting the backboard from a 3-point shot can result in a long rebound, with the ball flying back in the opposite direction.
The angle and position of the backboard can also affect the difficulty of the shot. Some players find it challenging to shoot with the side of the backboard facing them, as it reduces their spatial reference. In such cases, they might prefer shooting from the top of the key or at a 45-degree angle between the key and the corner.
Practicing corner shots can be more challenging due to the energy required to chase down misses, especially when practicing alone. This can result in fewer repetitions and less opportunity to perfect the shot. However, with consistent practice and a good understanding of the backboard's role, players can improve their accuracy and consistency when shooting 3-point corner shots.
Overall, the backboard serves as a valuable tool for shooters, providing a visual reference and helping to align shots. While it may be easier for some players to use the backboard for corner 3s, it is not a necessity, and great shooters can excel without relying on it. Understanding the advantages and limitations of using the backboard can help players make the most of this tool and improve their shooting skills in the corners.
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The angle of the shooting arm
The shooting arm is key to making a successful 3-point corner shot in basketball. The angle of the arm is crucial and will determine the success of the shot. The shooting arm should be fully extended, with the elbow locked, and the wrist and fingers controlling the direction of the ball.
When shooting from the corner, the angle of the shooting arm will be different from a regular 3-point shot. The arm should be at more of a 45-degree angle to the body, with the elbow tucked in, rather than straight out to the side. This is to allow for the narrower shooting space in the corner. The arm should be fully extended, with a slight bend in the elbow to allow for more control and accuracy. The wrist and fingers should be used to guide the ball towards the basket, with a smooth, fluid motion.
Practising the shooting motion and form is essential to perfecting the 3-point corner shot. Players should focus on developing a consistent and repeatable shooting motion, with a smooth release and follow-through. The angle of the shooting arm is just one aspect of the shot, and it should work in harmony with the player's footwork, body position, and ball control for an effective shooting technique.
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Plays to get a quick 3-point shot
There are several plays that can be used to get a quick 3-point shot in basketball. Here are some options:
The Elevator Screen
This play gives three options for getting an open 3-point shot. While specific player movements depend on the diagram, the elevator screen involves players setting up at the free-throw line with enough space for another player to cut between them. This creates opportunities for passing and 3-point shots.
3-Out, 2-In Double
In this play, players set up staggered screens and cut to the baseline. If the player cutting to the baseline does not have an open 3-point shot, they can pass to another player for a 3-point shot from the corner or wing.
Horns Set
This play uses three double-staggered screens to create a sequence of three possible 3-point shots. The play starts with the wings deep in the corners and the post players facing the point guard with one foot outside the 3-point arc. The point guard dribbles over to the right wing, and the post players set a staggered double-screen. A player then cuts hard around the double screen for the pass and 3-point shot. If this player does not have an open shot, the post players can set another staggered double-screen for a different player to cut under for the pass and 3-point shot.
America's Play
In this play, one player dribbles to the left side of the floor off a screen set by another player. Two other players set a double-downscreen for a third player, who uses the screen and breaks to the top of the key. The player who dribbled to the left side then passes to the player at the top of the key for a quick 3-point shot.
General Strategies
To get quick 3-point shots, it is important to work double-screens into your regular offense. Additionally, committing to taking more 3-point shots can be advantageous because it requires fewer baskets and a lower shooting percentage to score the same number of points as 2-point shots.
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Frequently asked questions
The corner 3-point shot is considered the easiest in the game. The top of the key is also considered an easy spot to score a 3-pointer from.
The corner 3-pointer is the easiest because of the angle it produces with the shooting arm. The backboard can also be used as a guideline, although great shooters don't tend to use the backboard.
The distance of the three-point line to the centre of the hoop varies. In the NBA, the three-point line is 22 feet away from the centre of the basket. In the NCAA, the distance is 20 feet 9 inches.
There are several plays that can be used to get a quick 3-point shot. One option is to have the primary shooter clear the ball screen, while a flare screen is set for them by another player. Another play involves having two primary shooters, with a third player stepping out past the 3-point line to receive the entry pass.
The best way to practice shooting 3-pointers is to find a court with the correct three-point line distance and markings for the level of play you are interested in. Practice shooting from various spots along the three-point line, including the corners, to improve your accuracy and consistency.



























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