Oregon Sets Program Record with 40 Three-Point Attempts in Win

UPDATE: The Oregon Ducks shattered their program record for three-point attempts during a thrilling victory over South Dakota State, as they launched a staggering 40 three-pointers in a game on November 15, 2023. After struggling early this season, Oregon turned things around, sinking 15 of those attempts to secure an 83-69 win at Matthew Knight Arena.

Oregon entered the game ranked a dismal 351st nationally in three-point shooting, hitting just 20.5% in their previous games. However, the Ducks found their rhythm, with standout performances from players like Jackson Shelstad, who scored 22 points and dished out eight assists, and Takai Simpkins, who added 20 points.

Despite the impressive shooting display, head coach Dana Altman expressed concerns about the team’s approach, stating, “That’s not us. I’m not pleased with our physicality at all.” He emphasized that the Ducks need to improve their inside game and not rely solely on perimeter shooting moving forward.

Oregon’s record-setting performance ties for the 25th most three-point attempts in a Division I game this season. Only seven Power Six conference teams have attempted 40 or more in a game thus far. Players like Nate Bittle and Kwame Evans Jr. helped maintain control, with Bittle contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds.

The Ducks led for the final 33 minutes of the game, but South Dakota State made a late push, narrowing the lead to 61-60 with 8:19 left. Oregon quickly responded with three consecutive three-pointers from Shelstad, Evans, and Simpkins, closing the game on a 13-5 run.

Shelstad acknowledged the team’s need for improvement, stating, “We’re settling way too much. When we went inside it worked out we were either scoring or getting to the free throw line.” With the win, Oregon improves to 3-0 this season, but as they prepare to face tougher opponents, they must refine their strategy.

As they look ahead to their next matchup against Oregon State, Altman expects injured player Devon Pryor to return, which could add depth to the Ducks’ lineup. The team must build on this victory while addressing their shooting habits to remain competitive in upcoming games.

With this significant win, the Ducks are poised to gain momentum as they continue their season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this record-setting performance impacts their strategy moving forward.