In the NBA, a 3-point shot is 23 feet 9 inches from the basket at the top of the arc, and 22 feet from the basket in the corners.

Quick Scoop

The exact distance depends on the league:

  • NBA: 23 feet 9 inches at the arc, 22 feet in the corners.
  • NCAA: 22 feet 1¾ inches.
  • WNBA and FIBA: about 22 feet 1¾ inches.
  • High school: 19 feet 9 inches.

So the simple answer is: it varies by level of play.