The 3-Point Revolution: How Providence College Pioneered a Game-Changer

Basketball has changed a lot over the years. One of the biggest changes came with the introduction of the 3-point shot. This rule wasn't new when it was adopted by the NCAA. It had been part of the old ABA league. But it was Rick Pitino, then coaching at Providence College, who really saw its potential. He was like a mad scientist, always looking for new ways to win. Pitino didn't invent the 3-point shot. But he was one of the first to use it effectively. In the 1986-87 season, his Providence team showed everyone how powerful this new rule could be. They started the season with a bang, scoring their first points from behind the 3-point line. And that was just the beginning. The Friars kept using the 3-pointer throughout the game. They stole the ball and instead of driving to the basket, they passed it to a teammate behind the 3-point line. This was a big deal. Before this, teams would have gone for a fast break, trying to score close to the basket. But Providence showed a new way. They spread out their players, making it harder for the other team to defend. Pitino's strategy worked. The Friars were scoring points from everywhere on the court. Other teams started to notice. They began to copy Providence's style, but it was too late. The Friars had already set the trend. They had shown the world the power of the 3-point shot. This wasn't just a new rule. It was a game-changer. It opened up the court, made the game faster, and more exciting. It also led to a new style of play, one that focused on spacing and shooting from distance. This style is still popular today, seen in many teams across the country. It's a testament to Pitino's vision and Providence's pioneering spirit.