For those who enjoy solving crossword puzzles, a recent clue from The New York Times has sparked interest. The crossword on June 26, 2024 included a clue that stumped many basketball fans and crossword solvers alike: “Old-fashioned basketball attempts.” If you couldn’t quite fill in the grid, the answer was “SETSHOTS.”
In this article, we’ll explain what set shots are, why they’re considered “old-fashioned,” and how crossword puzzles bring interesting elements from sports into the word game world. Crossword puzzles like these are not only fun but also educational. They can give us a peek into sports history and even improve our vocabulary.
What Are Set Shots in Basketball?
A set shot in basketball is a type of shot where the player doesn’t jump. Instead, they stand in place, plant their feet firmly on the ground, and shoot the ball. Set shots are different from jump shots, which involve a player jumping off the ground to make the shot.
Back in the early days of basketball, set shots were very popular. Players would stand still, focus, and take their shot. Set shots require good aim, timing, and form. The player must be steady and balanced when they release the ball.
This shot style was common in the 1940s and 1950s. Players at that time had fewer techniques and strategies than they do today. As the game evolved, jump shots became the new standard because they allowed players to get over defenders. Jump shots are harder to block, making them more effective in competitive games.
Why Is the Set Shot Considered Old-Fashioned?
In modern basketball, you don’t see set shots very often. Today’s players use more advanced techniques, like jump shots, fadeaways, and three-pointers. The jump shot, in particular, has replaced the set shot as the main way to shoot because it allows players to get more height and avoid defenders’ blocks.
In the past, players focused more on accuracy and stability. Set shots allowed them to control their movements and aim carefully. But as the game got faster and more physical, players needed to develop shots that could handle the pressure. The jump shot added a level of skill and excitement that made set shots seem outdated.
Today, set shots are mostly seen in free throws or other situations where players have no defenders around them. That’s why the set shot is often called “old-fashioned.”
Crossword Clues and Their Connection to Sports History
Including set shots as a crossword clue is interesting. It shows how crosswords capture history, even in sports. Crossword puzzles often include words and terms from different fields, such as science, literature, and sports. When we see a clue like “Old-fashioned basketball attempts,” it’s not just about filling in the answer. It’s also a chance to learn something about the sport’s past.
For many young fans, the term “set shot” might not be familiar. They might only know the modern techniques like dunks and three-pointers. But the crossword puzzle clue gives them a chance to discover an older style of playing. This is part of the joy of crosswords; they connect us with information we might not encounter in our daily lives.
Tips for Solving Sports Clues in Crosswords
Sports clues in crosswords can be tricky, especially if they refer to older terms or lesser-known techniques. Here are some tips to help you solve these types of clues:
- Look for Descriptive Words: Words like “old-fashioned” or “vintage” can give hints about terms from the past.
- Think of Common Sports Actions: For basketball, consider basic actions like “pass,” “shoot,” or “dribble.” For old-fashioned terms, look back at how sports were played in earlier eras.
- Research if You’re Stuck: Don’t hesitate to look up terms you’re unfamiliar with. This is a great way to learn about sports history and expand your knowledge.
- Practice Makes Perfect: The more crosswords you do, the more you’ll get used to different types of clues, including sports-related ones.
Why Crossword Puzzles Include Sports Terms
Crosswords have a unique way of incorporating popular culture, history, and niche knowledge. Including sports terms like “set shots” connects the world of word games with the world of sports. Crosswords have a long history of bringing in terms from various fields. This keeps the puzzles engaging and relevant.
For example, other sports-related terms like “slam dunk” or “homerun” frequently appear in crosswords. This brings variety to the puzzles and keeps solvers on their toes. Including terms from different times and areas of life helps keep crossword puzzles fresh.
Conclusion
The clue “Old-fashioned basketball attempts” might have left some puzzled, but the answer—“SETSHOTS”—gives us a glimpse into basketball’s past. Set shots were once a popular way of scoring, and although they’ve become less common, they’re an important part of basketball history. The fact that this term made it into a modern-day crossword puzzle shows how crosswords preserve interesting knowledge from all areas of life.
Solving crossword puzzles is not only fun but also a way to learn. If you enjoy crosswords, you’ll find that each puzzle is a journey into different fields, from sports to science. So, the next time you come across a challenging clue, remember that it might be an opportunity to discover something new. Keep practicing, and who knows? You might become a crossword expert in no time.
