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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bball-nba-three-point-distance

How far is the NBA three-point arc from the middle of the basket?

23 feet 9 inches.

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  1. 19 feet 9 inches
  2. 22 feet 1.75 inches
  3. 23 feet 9 inches ✔

Why: The NBA arc is 23 feet 9 inches from the middle of the basket. Near the corners, straight lines run 3 feet in from the sidelines, so the corner three is shorter.

Huh, didn't know that: Before releasing a three-point shot, the shooter may not be touching the floor on or inside the three-point line.

The dad joke
Why did the shooter love math class? He was great with threes.
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References

Answer: 23 feet 9 inches. The NBA arc is 23 feet 9 inches from the middle of the basket. Near the corners, straight lines run 3 feet in from the sidelines, so the corner three is shorter.

  1. NBA Official Rules, Rule 1: Court Dimensions and Equipment official.nba.com/rule-no-1-court-dimensions-equipment
    an arc of 23’9” from the middle of the basket which intersects the parallel lines.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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