The Evolution of the Stretch Four in the NBA

As the NBA evolved in the early 1970s, one of the most significant changes in the game was the emergence of the stretch four. This position, traditionally the power forward, now had an extended range to shoot from beyond the three-point line. This development stretched the floor and altered defensive strategies, making for a more dynamic and versatile game.

From the Early 70s to the Modern Era

Going back to the early 70s, the NBA was peppered with bigs who had an extended although not a three-point range. Players like George McGinnis and Kevin Wakefield were known for their mid-range shooting, which was effectively a long-range shot for their era. Akim Olajuwon's iconic 15-foot fadeaway, which on the baseline was effectively a 20-foot shot, epitomized the mid-range shooting skills of power forwards during that period.

Bill Laimbeer, known more for his Bad Boy image with the Detroit Pistons, was also very proficient from the perimeter, demonstrating that power forwards could add value outside the paint. However, Laimbeer's shooting range was more strategic than frequent, serving to stretch the floor rather than to set up volume three-point attempts.

Mel Counts and Other Early Trailblazers

Before these players, there were pioneers like Mel Counts, a legitimate 7-footer in the 1960s who was an excellent outside shooter for a big. Players such as Bob McAdoo (6'9) and Jack Sikma (6'11) were also notable for their shooting outside the paint. These players were instrumental in showcasing that big men could contribute effectively beyond the traditional zones and plays.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was one of the great centers of the era and acknowledged that several centers who regularly took outside shots would give him trouble. Dan Issel and Dave Cowens were among these players. Although they were centers, they were undersized for the era but rugged 6'9 players who could bang in the paint and rebound. Despite their size, they were proficient from outside, a skill that was more common in their era but limited by the lack of a three-point line.

The Emergence of the Modern Stretch Four

However, the transformation of the power forward from a traditional low post player to a mid-range threat was truly pioneered by players like Dirk Nowitzki. Dirk is usually credited as the trendsetter, initiating the era of the modern stretch four. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc with precision and consistency not only altered defensive strategies but also revolutionized the role of the power forward in the NBA.

Dirk's unique skill set allowed him to stretch the floor and provide high-volume three-point shooting, making him one of the most versatile players in the league. His ability to play both inside and outside the paint, combined with his excellent shooting from the mid-range, redefined the power forward position. He became a role model for future players who would stretch the floor through their three-point shooting ability.

Impact on Team Strategies

The rise of the stretch four fundamentally changed team strategies, opening up the floor and creating more space for ball-handlers, shooters, and ball-distributors. Teams could now spread the floor more effectively, leading to more balanced offenses and increased scoring opportunities.

Defensively, teams needed to adapt by ensuring that power forwards could be both closely guarded and guarded from the perimeter. The stretch four required defenders to be more agile and adaptable, mixing up their approach to guard players who could play multiple roles.

Conclusion

The evolution of the stretch four is a testament to the continuous growth and innovation in the NBA. Players like Dirk Nowitzki set the stage for a new era, where power forwards are expected to be more than just interior players. As the game continues to evolve, the impact of the stretch four remains a crucial element in the strategic and tactical landscape of the NBA.

Keywords: Stretch Four, 3-point Range, NBA History