Shooting Treys Just Got Harder

The NBA’s Board of Governors approved four rules changes Friday, including moving the 3-point line back to its original distance of 23 feet, 9 inches, except in the corners, where the distance will remain 22 feet. The line was moved to a uniform 22 feet three seasons ago.

Also approved were the recommendations of the competition committee dealing with forearm checking, calling a timeout while in the air, and the “no-charge area” under the basket.

The number of 3-point attempts rose dramatically after the line was moved in to 22 feet. Many blamed the shorter distance for contributing to the recent scoring dropoff because it encouraged lower-percentage outside shots.

The move could help create more room for players in the low-post, who have been easily double-teamed since the arc was moved.

The forearm checking rule will prohibit a defensive player from using his forearm to impede the progress of an offensive player who is facing the basket.

The timeout rule will prohibit a player from calling a timeout if both of his feet are in the air and any part of his body has broken the vertical plane of the baseline or sideline.

Jordan denies pressuring Krause

Michael Jordan said he’s relieved the Chicago Bulls didn’t trade Scottie Pippen, but denies that he called general manager Jerry Krause and threatened to retire if Pippen were dealt.

“I’m happy that it looks like they’re going to keep the team together,” Jordan told the Chicago Sun-Times. “But I’ll be happiest when all the contracts are signed. That way I’ll know for sure.”

The contracts in question would include his own and that of coach Phil Jackson. Both are unsigned for the coming season, and Jordan has said he would retire if Jackson leaves.

More deals brewing

Now that the Nets and Philadelphia 76ers finally have completed the multiplayer trade that will bring No. 2 draft choice Keith Van Horn to New Jersey, they can start thinking about other deals.

The Sixers are already talking with Miami about a deal involving power forward Derrick Coleman. Forward Clarence Weatherspoon, who was part of the recent failed Dino Radja trade with Boston, also might go somewhere.

Guard Kerry Kittles and Van Horn seemingly are the only two untouchables on the Nets.

Hawks sign Gray

The Atlanta Hawks signed first-round pick Ed Gray to a three-year contract, making him the first player that was drafted Wednesday to agree to a contract.

The 6-foot-3 guard, chosen 22nd overall out of the University of California, was the nation’s second-leading scorer last season behind Charles Jones of Long Island University.

Gray, the Pacific-10 Player of the Year, averaged 24.8 points.