Oregon Ducks Set New Record with 40 Three-Point Attempts in Win

UPDATE: In a remarkable turnaround, the Oregon Ducks shattered their program record for three-point attempts in a thrilling 83-69 victory over the South Dakota State Jackrabbits on November 15, 2023. The Ducks, previously struggling with a dismal 20.5% shooting rate from beyond the arc, launched a staggering 40 three-pointers during the game, breaking their own record of 39 attempts set in the 2017-18 season.

The Ducks entered the matchup at Matthew Knight Arena ranked 351st nationally in three-point shooting, having made just 9 of 44 attempts in their first two games. However, they found their rhythm against the Jackrabbits, converting 15 of 40 attempts, with seven players contributing from long range.

Leading the charge, Jackson Shelstad scored 22 points and dished out eight assists, while Takai Simpkins added 20 points and Nate Bittle recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. The game drew a crowd of 5,019, who witnessed the Ducks pull ahead for the final 33 minutes.

Coach Dana Altman expressed mixed feelings about the strategy, stating, “That’s not us. I’m not pleased with our physicality at all.” He noted that the team’s excessive reliance on three-point shots was not part of the game plan and emphasized the need to improve their inside game moving forward.

Despite the three-point barrage, the Ducks scored 14 of their 18 points in the paint during the first half, largely due to offensive rebounds. “When we went inside, it worked out. We were either scoring or getting to the free throw line,” Shelstad commented, stressing the need to attack the basket more effectively in future games.

The Jackrabbits made a late push, narrowing the gap to 61-60 with just under nine minutes remaining. However, Oregon quickly regained control with three consecutive three-pointers from Shelstad, Kwame Evans Jr., and Simpkins, ending the game on a 13-5 run.

South Dakota State’s efforts were led by Joe Sayler and Luke Haertle, who each scored 14 points, while Kalen Garry added 13 points.

As the Ducks improve to 3-0 for the season, they are expected to face a tougher challenge against Oregon State on Monday night. The team is looking to refine their approach and capitalize on the momentum from this record-setting performance.

With this significant victory, the Ducks’ offensive strategy may be on the verge of transformation, making them a team to watch as they progress through the season. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if Oregon can maintain this newfound shooting confidence against stronger opponents.