What is the term for a shot taken from beyond the three-point line in NCAA basketball?

In NCAA basketball, a shot taken from beyond the three-point line is specifically referred to as a three-pointer. This terminology is used to denote that the shot is worth three points instead of the two points awarded for a shot taken inside the three-point arc. The three-point line is a crucial element of modern basketball strategy, allowing teams to score more efficiently by capitalizing on long-range shooting skills.

Each of the other options represents different types of shots or scoring situations in basketball. A free throw is an unopposed attempt at a basket taken from the free-throw line, and it is worth one point. A two-point shot is any basket made from inside the three-point line, earning the team two points. A layup is a close-range shot typically taken off the backboard while in motion towards the basket, which also counts as two points. Understanding these distinctions is important for comprehending the scoring system and strategies employed in NCAA basketball.