3 and D players are a unique breed in basketball. They are known for their two standout skills: hitting three-point shots (that’s the “3”) and playing strong defense (that’s the “D”).
Key takeaways:
- 3 and D players are great at both scoring three-pointers and playing tough defense.
- They’re very valuable in today’s basketball because they can attack and defend effectively.
- While they can play in different positions, you’ll usually find them as shooting guards or small forwards.
Originally emerging as role players, these athletes have now become crucial to teams. They can do a lot of different things on the court, which in today’s “positionless” game is important.
Here, we take a closer look at 3 and D players. We’ll talk about what makes them special, how they’ve become more important over time, and their role in both the NBA and WNBA. By the end, you’ll see why they’re much more than just backup players.
Defining 3 and D Players: Key Characteristics and Skills
3 and D players are a unique combination of sharp long-range shooters and strong defenders, making them highly valuable in today’s basketball.
They’re:
- Great 3-point shooters: These players are good at scoring from long distances, especially from beyond the three-point line. This isn’t just about adding points. Their shooting ability spreads out the defense of the other team. This means they make the defense work harder, creating chances for their teammates to score too.
- Top-notch defenders: 3 and D players are equally skilled in defense. They are often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best scorers. They can disrupt the other team’s offensive tactics, making it tough for them to find scoring opportunities.
This dual ability to impact the game on both ends of the court is what makes 3 and D players so crucial. They bring a balance to the team that is essential in today’s fast and varied game.
They are multi-faceted role players; offering versatility that can change the course of a game.
Learn more: What is a role player in basketball?
Typical Basketball Positions of 3 and D Players
3 and D players can play various positions, but they’re most often found in two: the shooting guard and the small forward.
Shooting Guard
The shooting guard position is perfect for 3 and D players because it has a heavy responsibility of scoring, especially from beyond the arch. These players are expected to be strong shooters, consistently making three-pointers and two-point field goals.
But shooting guards are also often tasked with guarding some of the best scoring guards on the opposing team, which is where the ‘D’ in ‘3 and D’ comes into play.
Small Forward
Small forwards are versatile players, often considered the most flexible position on the team. This is why many 3 and D players thrive as small forwards.
They have the skills to knock down shots from a distance and also the size and athleticism to defend against various positions, from guards to forwards. Their ability to adapt and cover different player roles on the court makes them invaluable, especially against opponents who pose matchup problems.
Learn more: How many players are on a basketball team?
The Rise of 3 and D Players in Modern Basketball
3 and D players have grown in importance over the years. This is because of how professional leagues, like the NBA and the WNBA, have evolved into a more positionless, versatile game.
In the past, basketball team strategy often focused on tall, strong players near the basket. Teams would pound the ball into big men like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, and David Robinson.
Now, the court has been stretched, with players shooting from further distances than ever before. The league’s big players today are leaner and expected to have the athletic characteristics to play further from the basket, in the form of both ball handling and shooting further out.
This new style focuses on speed, space, and shooting; a change that made 3 and D players valuable. These notable players have the versatility to shoot from afar and put some serious defense pressure on opponents, improving team success.
Teams now look for 3 and D players to add flexibility and shooting ability. They’re key to winning games in the fast-paced, shoot-from-distance style that defines modern basketball.
Strategic Importance in Modern NBA
3 and D players have a crucial role in today’s NBA, especially with the popularity of small-ball strategy.
In small-ball, teams use smaller, quicker players instead of traditional big ones. This style emphasizes speed, agility, and outside shooting. 3 and D players are perfect for small-ball because they are fast, can shoot, and defend multiple positions.
By shooting outside, 3 and D players open up the court, creating more space for their teammates to operate. And on defense, their skills in guarding the best players give their team an edge.
Best 3 and D Players in the NBA
Many in the NBA today fit the bill for 3 and D players. Over the years, we’ve seen some who are exceptional. Here are some of the best 3 and D players to play in the NBA:
- Michael Cooper: Arguably the “father” of 3 and D players, Cooper played a key role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ five NBA championships. He was an all-time great defender, earning NBA All-Defensive Team honors eight times and winning NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1987. Plus, he shot 38.5% from the 3-point line.
- Bruce Bowen: A reliable three-point shooter and eight-time All-Defensive First Team winner, Bowen epitomized the 3 and D player. His versatile skills helped the San Antonio Spurs win three NBA championships.
- Klay Thompson: One of the best three-point shooters in NBA history, Thompson’s defensive skills were as strong as his shooting when he was in his prime. His three-point shooting is still among the league’s best. Known for defending various superstars in the playoffs, Thompson was integral to the Golden State Warriors grabbing their four championship wins.
- Kawhi Leonard: While now a superstar, Leonard started as a stellar 3 and D player. He’s a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and has been on the All-Defensive Team seven times. His contributions were crucial in winning two NBA championships.
Learn more: Who has the most rings in the NBA?
Best 3 and D Players in the WNBA
The WNBA has its share of outstanding 3 and D players. These athletes excel in both three-point shooting and defense, and most won WNBA championships. Here are some of the best in the WNBA:
- Alysha Clark: Now coming off the bench, Clark is still one of the most valuable players in the WNBA. She reliably hits outside shots and is almost always tasked with the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s best player. She’s been recognized on the WNBA All-Defensive Teams and played a huge role in her teams winning three WNBA championships.
- Teresa Weatherspoon: A two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, Weatherspoon was a lock-down defender. Over her career, she shot 41.1% from the field and is most remembered for her memorable half-court shot in the WNBA Finals.
- Natasha Cloud: Cloud is a veteran guard who brings remarkable energy to the court. As an All-Defensive Team member, she’s always been a great defensive player known for her ability to shut down top opponents. And over the past couple of years, she’s worked hard to be an offensive threat. She was instrumental in the Washington Mystics’ 2019 championship win.
- Katie Douglas: Douglas stands out as one of the most prominent two-way players. She was known for her long-range shooting and high-scoring abilities on offense, as well as her solid defensive tactics. A four-time WNBA All-Defensive First Team member, she helped her team win a WNBA championship in 2012.
Learn more: How many WNBA teams are there?
FAQs
What are 3 and D players?
3 and D players in basketball have two main skills: excellent three-point shooting (‘3’) and strong defensive abilities (‘D’). They contribute on both ends of the court.
What makes a great 3 and D player?
A great 3 and D player excels in shooting three-pointers and playing tough defense. They must be consistent in scoring from a distance and able to guard various positions effectively.
Who was the first 3-and-D player in the NBA?
Many consider Michael Cooper of the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980s the first 3-and-D player. He was known for his excellent defense and strong three-point shooting.
What is a 3-and-D shooting guard in the NBA?
A 3-and-D shooting guard in the NBA is a player who specializes in three-point shooting and playing strong defense, at the shooting guard position.
Is Stephen Curry a 3-and-D player?
Stephen Curry is known more for his exceptional three-point shooting and less for the ‘D’ or defensive part. While he’s one of the best shooters in NBA history, his defensive play doesn’t define him as a typical 3-and-D player.
How do 3 and D players impact modern NBA offenses and defenses?
3 and D players impact the modern NBA by adding versatility. Offensively, their three-point shooting stretches the defense, creating space for teammates. Defensively, their ability to guard top players disrupts the opponent’s offense, offering a tactical advantage.
What are the typical physical characteristics of a 3-and-D player?
Typical physical characteristics of a 3-and-D player include agility, speed, and good height. They need to be quick enough to defend effectively and tall enough to shoot over defenders. However, their skills and basketball IQ are more crucial than physical traits.
