There’s nothing quite like a well-crafted sports-themed crossword clue to get the neurons firing, especially when it delves into a specific moment in history that fundamentally altered the game. Today’s puzzle presented a gem, one that takes us back to a pivotal moment in NBA history: the debut of a particular type of shot in 1979, referred to, as the crossword clue specifies, slangily. This isn’t just any old basketball term; it’s a testament to how the sport evolved, and how language keeps pace with athletic innovation.
Think back to the late 70s. The NBA was on the cusp of a golden age, about to be propelled into the mainstream by legendary rivalries. But even before that explosion, a fundamental change was bubbling up, quite literally, from the rulebook itself. Prior to 1979, while players might have attempted long-range baskets from time to time, these shots didn’t carry the distinct strategic weight or scoring premium that they would soon command. Their value was merely two points, the same as any other field goal, regardless of the distance.
When this rule officially entered the league, it didn’t just add a new line to the court; it fundamentally altered how basketball was played at every level. Teams suddenly had a brand-new, powerful weapon, a way to stretch defenses, create valuable space in the paint, and dramatically increase their scoring potential with a single make. It was a true game-changer, forcing coaches and players alike to rethink everything from offensive sets to defensive rotations. The geometry of the game was forever reshaped. This revolutionary addition to the scoring system immediately highlighted players with a specific long-range skill, rewarding them handsomely for their accuracy from distance.
The “slangily” part of this crossword clue is particularly delightful for any wordplay enthusiast. It speaks to the organic way certain athletic innovations acquire popular, often more colorful, names. What began as a technical adjustment and a new scoring zone quickly permeated the fan base, commentator booths, and pick-up games alike. This informal moniker became universally understood, embodying the very spirit of the audacious, high-reward play itself. It’s a testament to how a new rule can inspire an entirely new vocabulary that becomes inseparable from the sport’s lexicon. The term itself became shorthand for both the shot and the excitement it generated.
This specific shot transformed the sport, turning what was once a relatively rare and perhaps desperate heave into a cornerstone of offensive strategy. Its introduction ignited a scoring revolution, pushing players to develop new skills and creating some of the most memorable moments in basketball lore. Understanding this historical context is absolutely key to unlocking this particular crossword clue. It’s a wonderful example of how sports history and linguistic evolution intersect within a well-constructed puzzle.
For any puzzle solver, this particular type of crossword clue offers a fantastic blend of sports trivia, historical knowledge, and linguistic evolution. It’s a reminder that even in the structured world of professional sports, innovation can lead to playful new vocabulary that sticks. So, when you encounter a crossword clue that asks for this game-altering shot from 1979, think about its immense impact, its origin, and how it cemented its place not just in NBA records, but in our everyday language, too. It’s more than just a shot; it’s a piece of cultural history perfectly captured by a challenging crossword clue.
Available Answers:
TREY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0826-25 NY Times Crossword 26 Aug 25, Tuesday