Mind the Game: Why the Midrange Still Matters

Presented by Uninterrupted and Wondery | Released May 13, 2025

In the episode titled "Why the Midrange Still Matters" from the podcast series Mind the Game, NBA legends LeBron James and Steve Nash delve deep into the evolving dynamics of basketball, specifically focusing on the significance of the midrange shot in today's game. This comprehensive discussion not only challenges prevalent narratives but also sheds light on the nuanced aspects of shot selection, player roles, and the psychological factors influencing both offense and defense.

1. Introduction to the Midrange Debate

Timestamp [01:26] - Steve Nash (Speaker B): "Common for people to think the midrange has left the game of basketball, which is actually not true. It's only part of the truth."

LeBron James and Steve Nash kick off the conversation by addressing the widespread belief that the midrange shot has become obsolete in the modern NBA, overshadowed by the surge in three-point shooting. They emphasize that this perception only captures a fragment of the reality on the court.

2. Evolution of the Game and Its Impact on the Midrange

Timestamp [02:00] - LeBron James (Speaker A): "When I came in the league, I came into a team with three or four power forwards who couldn't shoot past the elbow... The game was completely different."

LeBron reminisces about the past when traditional big men dominated the paint, contrasting it with today's hybrid players who possess perimeter skills. He attributes these changes to rule modifications, such as the removal of the "lifted players" and adjustments to illegal defense regulations, which have collectively ushered in a faster, more fluid style of play.

3. Statistical Insights: Efficiency of the Midrange

Timestamp [04:07] - Steve Nash: "The average points per possession of an NBA game for the entire league is like 1.14... the value clearly is not a high-value shot."

Steve presents a statistical analysis highlighting that only a handful of players maintain midrange efficiency above the league average. This underscores the notion that, for non-elite players, the midrange may not offer significant value compared to other scoring opportunities.

4. The Midrange as a Tool for Star Players

Timestamp [05:21] - Steve Nash: "The midrange shot has never been more important for your creator because teams are obviously going to try to take away the rim and the threes."

Both LeBron and Steve argue that for elite players—the "creators"—the midrange remains a vital component of their scoring arsenal. By being adept at multiple levels, these players force defenses to stretch, creating opportunities not just for themselves but also for their teammates.

Timestamp [06:42] - LeBron James: "If they can attack a close out... it keeps your teammates even more opportunities to do what they are out there to do."

LeBron emphasizes that versatility in scoring—spanning the rim, midrange, and three-point range—enhances team dynamics and offensive flexibility.

5. Psychological and Human Elements in Midrange Play

Timestamp [12:09] - LeBron James: "You're human, it gets frustrating."

The conversation shifts to the psychological challenges defenders face when contending with skilled midrange shooters. LeBron acknowledges the human tendency to become frustrated, which can lead to deviations from game plans and defensive lapses.

Timestamp [13:00] - Steve Nash: "Don't let your perception of your identity ruin being a winning basketball player."

Steve underscores the importance of mental resilience, advising players to transcend personal identities and adapt for the sake of team success.

6. Player Responsibilities and Game Control

Timestamp [21:38] - LeBron James: "I know exactly how it's going to pill out by whatever action that I do... It's a domino effect."

LeBron discusses the responsibility of having control in critical game moments. By making intelligent midrange decisions, leaders can influence the game's outcome through a ripple effect of positive plays.

7. Adapting to Team Needs and Shot Selection

Timestamp [28:52] - Steve Nash: "A three-level scorer who's someone who can shoot from deep, score from the midrange, or score at the basket."

Steve introduces the concept of a "three-level scorer," emphasizing the indispensability of players who can effectively operate across all scoring tiers. This adaptability ensures that even when specific areas are heavily guarded, alternative scoring options remain viable.

8. Overcoming Challenges and Developing a Growth Mindset

Timestamp [35:37] - Steve Nash: "Always ask yourself, what am I avoiding? What do I not want to do because it's uncomfortable, because it's out of my comfort zone."

The discussion transitions to personal development, where both LeBron and Steve reflect on overcoming internal challenges and embracing discomfort to grow as players. They advocate for a continuous evolution of skills and mindsets to stay relevant and impactful.

Timestamp [36:44] - LeBron James: "Don't let your perception of what you think your identity is ruin yourself of being a winning player."

Reiterating the earlier sentiment, LeBron highlights the necessity of shedding rigid self-perceptions to achieve sustained success in the league.

9. Conclusion: The Enduring Value of the Midrange

Through a blend of statistical analysis, personal anecdotes, and strategic insights, LeBron James and Steve Nash convincingly argue that the midrange shot retains its significance in modern basketball. While the game has undeniably shifted towards three-point shooting and rim-focused play, the midrange remains a critical tool for elite players to diversify their offensive repertoires, challenge defenses, and facilitate team success. The episode serves as a testament to the nuanced understanding both legends have of the game's intricate dynamics, reaffirming that basketball's beauty lies in its ever-evolving strategies and the continuous pursuit of excellence.

Notable Quotes:

• LeBron James [13:00]: "Don't let your perception of your identity ruin being a winning basketball player."

• Steve Nash [28:52]: "A three-level scorer who's someone who can shoot from deep, score from the midrange, or score at the basket."

• LeBron James [35:37]: "Don't let your perception of what you think your identity is ruin yourself of being a winning player."

This episode not only challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding the midrange but also provides listeners with a deeper appreciation of the strategic and psychological facets that make basketball an endlessly captivating sport.