Four point line to be added NBA

NEW YORK — In a move that has left fans and analysts stunned, the NBA announced today that it will be introducing a four-point line, effective immediately. The line will be set at 30 feet from the basket, extending around the perimeter in a smooth arc. League officials said the decision is aimed at boosting excitement and encouraging long-range shooting.

“The game has evolved, and so should we,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver during a press conference this morning. “Players are already shooting from incredible distances. It’s time to embrace that and give fans what they love most: deep threes and unbelievable moments.”

While the league cited entertainment value as the main driver of the change, rumors are swirling that the decision was heavily influenced by social media pressure. Videos of players like Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard routinely draining shots from half-court have gone viral, and the league is eager to capitalize on the craze.

“I’m ready for it,” Curry said when asked about the rule change. “I’ve been practicing from way out for years. Now it finally counts for something extra.”

However, not everyone is thrilled. Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra questioned the effect the rule could have on team strategy.

“We build our system around ball movement and smart shots. Now, I worry some players will start chucking it up from 30 feet just for the bonus point. It’s not basketball, it’s a circus.”

In response to these concerns, the league clarified that any four-point shot attempt resulting in an airball will result in a two-point deduction for the team.

“We wanted to ensure that there’s still a risk factor,” explained Joe Dumars, the NBA’s executive vice president of basketball operations. “Players will need to be confident and strategic when taking those long-range attempts.”

The move has even sparked controversy among players themselves. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James appeared skeptical when asked about the new rule.

“Man, I don’t know. I’m all for excitement, but this feels like something straight out of a video game,” James said with a laugh. “Next thing you know, they’ll have a five-point line from the stands.”

But not all players share James’ concerns. Houston Rockets sharpshooter Fred VanVleet is already planning to adapt his game to maximize the new scoring opportunity.

“I’m practicing from the logo every day now,” VanVleet said confidently. “If they’re giving us four points for it, why not take advantage?”

Even team owners are weighing in on the decision. Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks, took to social media to express his mixed feelings about the rule.

“Innovation is great, but what’s next? A half-court bonus? A spinning hoop for style points? Let’s keep the game balanced,” Cuban tweeted.

Analysts predict that the introduction of the four-point line could lead to a spike in scoring records. Some have even speculated that the league may adjust MVP criteria to reflect the new dynamic, potentially favoring players with a high volume of four-point attempts.

NBA referee Scott Foster commented on the challenge of officiating the new line.

“We’ve been practicing with simulated four-point lines in scrimmages, and it’s definitely an adjustment. Players are going to test the limits, and we’ll have to be sharp.”

Fans will get their first look at the four-point line during tonight’s nationally televised doubleheader, with the Golden State Warriors facing off against the Los Angeles Clippers. The league has teased a new segment called “Four-Point Frenzy” during halftime, highlighting every successful four-point shot from around the league.

(This story was created as part of COMM 498 Humor in Journalism.)