In a bold move that will shake up NBA stat-keeping, the league has announced a new rule change for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Failed end-of-period heaves will now be recorded as missed field goal attempts for the team rather than the individual player, providing some relief for players concerned about their shooting percentages. This adjustment, which comes after successful testing at the Summer League, is aimed at encouraging more long-range shots, as players will no longer hesitate to launch miracle 50-footers or deeper shots at the end of quarters. Both the competition committee and SportRadar data support the decision, with stars like Stephen Curry and Nikola Jokic having showcased their prowess from beyond 36 feet in crucial moments.
The introduction of the "heave rule" signals a strategic shift in how players approach end-of-quarter situations, potentially unleashing a wave of spectacular long-range attempts. By clarifying that these daring shots will impact team statistics rather than individual shooting percentages, the NBA hopes to foster a more fearless and entertaining style of play. With sharpshooters like Curry and Jokic already demonstrating their proficiency from deep range, fans can look forward to more electrifying moments as players embrace the opportunity to showcase their skills without reservation. This rule change promises to inject even more excitement into the game, setting the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable 2025-26 NBA season.