NBA shooting stars step back to make a great leap forward

Awkward-looking bombs from beyond the arc putting a new twist on offense

James Harden turned to it to become the NBA's most unstoppable scorer.

Luka Doncic has ridden it to stardom on both sides of the Atlantic.

The step-back 3-pointer is the perfect weapon for the modern NBA-practically a necessity in a game where the ability to find space to shoot from behind the arc is more valued than ever before.

"Things have changed and the game is so spread out," said Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle.

"All over the NBA and all over the world really, everybody's stretching the range out a few feet more.

"The 3-point line is being covered much better than it has in the past so guys are moving back, and guys that can create space to shoot 3s unassisted have a special skill.

"It's going to be more of a necessary skill as the game continues to evolve."

But before guys who belong in the paint start hoisting them up from the perimeter or taking balls off the rack and shooting stepbacks during this weekend's All-Star 3-point contest, there are a few things to consider.

Even Stephen Curry said it's a tough shot to make. It's fundamentally flawed and sometimes looks like a violation.

"You mean when they jump backwards and travel and shoot a 3?" Spurs coach Gregg Popovich quipped.

"I guess it has been made legal. I don't know. It's very difficult to guard."

That's because the defender has to be prepared for the player with the ball to drive to the basket.