<P> The NBA adopted the three - point line at the start of the 1979--80 season . This is of variable distance, ranging from 22 feet (6.7 m) in the corners to 23.75 feet (7.24 m) behind the top of the key . During the 1994--95, 1995--96 and 1996--97 seasons, the NBA attempted to address decreased scoring by shortening the overall distance of the line to a uniform 22 feet (6.7 m) around the basket . It was moved back to its original distance after the 1996--97 season . FIBA and the NCAA both adopted the three - point line in 1985 . </P> <P> In most high school associations in the United States, the distance is 19.75 feet . This was formerly the distance for college basketball as well . On May 26, 2007, the NCAA playing rules committee agreed to move the three - point line back one foot to 20.75 feet for the men . This rule went into effect for the 2008--2009 season . The three - point line for women (NCAA) moved back one foot to 20.75 feet at the start of the 2011--2012 season . </P> <P> The international distance, used in most countries outside the United States and in FIBA and WNBA competition, is currently 6.6 m (21.65 ft) to 6.75 m (22.15 ft). </P> <P> The perimeter is defined as the areas outside the free throw lane and inside the three - point line . Shots converted (successfully made) from this area are called "perimeter shots" or "medium - range shots ." If a player's foot is on the three - point line, the shot is considered a perimeter shot . </P>

How big is a 3 point line in basketball