In women’s college basketball, the 3-point shot has become a dynamic force, often compared to the dunk in men’s games. It can electrify the atmosphere, rev up the crowd, and shift the game’s momentum.
Last season, nine out of the twelve teams that hit at least 37 percent of their 3-point shots made it to the NCAA Tournament. Among them, three advanced to the second weekend, and UConn, ranked sixth in 3-point shooting, ended up clinching the national championship.
Additionally, six of the ten teams that sank at least nine 3-pointers per game also participated in the March Madness tournament.
Don’t forget, prior to her exit from the WNBA, Caitlin Clark led Iowa to consecutive national title games with her outstanding shooting skills from long range. Also, Ajee Fudd’s knack for making shots from the 3-point line significantly contributed to the Huskies’ undefeated season.
Considering the critical role of 3-point shooting, here are some players to keep an eye on this season who excel in that area.
Last year, Weiss was seventh in the nation among those who played at least 20 games, with an average of 3.1 3-pointers per game. The 5-foot-10 guard from Hewlett, New York, also shot 37.6 percent from beyond the arc as a sophomore. Leading the Lions, who made their first NCAA Tournament win last season, she averaged 17.8 points per game. This preseason, Weiss earned a spot on the Her Hoop Stats watch list for the Becky Hammon Award, which honors the nation’s top mid-major player.
You could argue that Kneepkens stands out as the best shooter in the transfer portal this offseason. During her time at the University of Utah, she finished ninth nationally in 3-pointers made, averaging 3.0 per game, while shooting 44.8 percent from deep. This percentage was particularly impressive, ranking sixth among players who attempted at least 6.5 3-pointers last season. Over the course of 104 games, with 96 starts, she holds a 43.2 percent shooting average from 3-point range. She should add a solid outside threat for the Bruins, who aim to return to the Final Four.
Last season, as a freshman, Turner was seventh in total 3-pointers made nationwide with 105 and 17th in shooting percentage at 45.7. Now, she leads all returning players in women’s college basketball who attempted at least five shots per game from long range last season. If she keeps improving, she could quickly become one of the top sharpshooters in the sport.
Tiana Todd, Ohio
Playing as a junior at Boston College last season, Todd managed to shoot 45.9 percent from beyond the arc, ranking 15th nationally, and was the best among ACC players who averaged at least three 3-pointers per game. She’s expected to replicate that success in the Big Ten with the Buckeyes.
Grace Slaughter, Missouri
During her sophomore year with the Tigers, Slaughter had an impressive shooting percentage of 45.9, landing her 14th in the nation. This was also the best for any SEC player who attempted at least 1.5 3-pointers per game last season. She is likely to be a significant asset for Missouri State as new head coach Kelly Harper seeks to rebuild the program.
See also: Kiki Smith (Purdue), Tessa Johnson (South Carolina), Sidney Harris (Iowa State), Taryn Sides (Kansas State), Yarden Garzon (Maryland), Taylor McCabe (Iowa), Carla Viegas (Pitt), Lani White (Virginia Tech), Tanuel Welch (Arizona), Abby Aalsma (Drake), Kyra Hanson (Vermont), Elle Evans (Kansas State), Rachel Ullstrom (Richmond)
