The Paint.

Another name for the foul lane. See: Lane.

360.

To elude a defender by doing a complete spin, making a 360-degree turn.

3-on-3.

A game played with only 3 players on the court for each team.

Three-point Field Goal.

A field goal worth three points because the shooter had both feet entirely beyond the 3-point line - an arc that is between 19'9"; and 23'9" from the basket - or jumping when he released the ball; also count if one foot is behind the line while the other is in the air. Also "three pointer".

Three-point Line.

A semi-circle drawn around the center of the basket, with radius of 23 feet, 9 inches - 7.28 m. -( at the top, intersecting with lines parallel to each sideline that are 22 feet - 6.70 m. - away at their closest point ) in the NBA; 20 feet, 6 inches - 6.25 m. - in FIBA, ULEB and international plays; and 19 feet, 9 inches - 6.06 m. - in college Basketball.

Three-point Play.

A 2-point field goal followed by a successful free-throw.

Three-point Shot.

See: Three-point Field Goal.

Three-seconds Area or Lane.

See: Lane.

Three-seconds Rule.

The rule that no part of an offensive player can spend no more than three consecutive seconds within the free-throw lane unless the ball is being shot. Having any part of either foot on or inside the line is considered being in the lane. If the shot hits the rim, the player standing in the lane gets a new three seconds. Once a player steps outs the lane, the count resets, and can reenter the lane for another three seconds.

3-seconds Violation.

See: 3-second Rule.

Throw-in.

The method by which a team with possession inbounds the ball. Putting the ball into play after it has gone out of bounds; after a score, a violation, or a personal foul for which no free throws are awarded; or at the beginning of a period, in some cases. The player making the throw-in has five seconds to pass the ball inbounds.