In basketball, a player scores a three-pointer by making a field goal from beyond the three-point arc. This distance varies by league but is typically set at 22 feet in the NBA and 23.75 feet in international play. If the player is behind this line and successfully shoots the ball into the basket, they are awarded three points for their team. This scoring method emphasizes the long-range shooting capability of players and is a critical aspect of modern basketball strategy.