The Evolution of NBA Big Men and the Three-Point Revolution
The NBA’s shift toward three-point shooting has redefined the role of big men, with players like Nikola Jokić and Joel Embiid blending traditional post skills with perimeter shooting. This trend, once rare, has become a critical component of modern basketball strategy, according to ESPN analyst Zach Lowe.
How the Three-Point Shot Transformed Big Men’s Roles
Historically, big men were defined by their ability to dominate in the paint, but the league’s increasing emphasis on spacing and shooting has forced a paradigm shift. According to NBA.com, the average three-point attempt by centers and power forwards rose from 1.2 per game in 2010 to 3.8 in 2023. This trend is driven by teams prioritizing lineups that can stretch defenses, a strategy popularized by the Houston Rockets under coach Mike D’Antoni.
“It’s not just about physicality anymore,” said former NBA player and analyst Jalen Rose. “Big men now need to be threat multipliers. If you can’t shoot, you’re out of the system.”
Key Players Leading the Charge
Several big men have pioneered this evolution. Nikola Jokić, the 2023 NBA MVP, averages 2.1 three-point attempts per game, a number that reflects his ability to space the floor while maintaining his dominant low-post game. Similarly, Joel Embiid, despite his traditional center profile, has improved his three-point percentage from 28.7% in 2019 to 34.5% in 2023, according to Basketball-Reference.
Even players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Giannis Antetokounmpo have adapted, with Towns hitting 35.6% of his threes in 2023 and Giannis embracing a more perimeter-oriented approach. These examples highlight how the archetype of the “traditional big man” has evolved to include shooting as a core skill.
Why This Trend Matters for the NBA
The integration of three-point shooting among big men has reshaped team-building and in-game strategies. Coaches now prioritize players who can create space, as noted in a 2022 report by the Harvard Sports Analysis Collective. This shift has also influenced draft trends, with teams like the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics prioritizing versatile, shooting-oriented big men.
“It’s a game-changer for how teams operate,” said former coach Steve Kerr. “You can’t afford to have a big man who doesn’t threaten the three. It’s a necessity now.”