Line Change

In a move that should have Reggie Miller salivating, the NBA competition committee last week recommended moving in the three-point arc from 23'9" to 22'0", a rule that will take effect in the 1994-95 season, pending approval from the NBA's board of governors. Here is a look at some other modifications that have changed the geometric face of sports.

1893
Distance from pitcher's mound to home plate increased from 50' to 60'6". An obvious advantage for the hitters.

1952
Key lane in NBA widened from 6' to 12'. Dubbed the Mikan Rule, it was designed to move Minneapolis Laker giant George Mikan farther from the hoop.

1964
Key area widened from 12' to the current standard of 16'. Installed partly to contain Wilt Chamberlain.

1969
Pitcher's mound lowered from 15" to 10". Installed in response to pitchers' domination in the previous season.

1974

Goal post moved to back of end zone. Reduced number of occasions that receiver ran pell-mell into the posts.

NFL kickoff point moved from 40- to 35-yard line in an effort to reduce touchbacks.

1994
NFL kickoff point moved from 35- to 30-yard line (see above).