Cullowhee, N.C. – A huge part of NCAA college basketball history will be on hand for Western Carolina's regular-season doubleheader finale on Saturday (Feb. 28) on Ingles Court at the Ramsey Center.
 
Western Carolina University's own Dr. Ronnie Carr, who made the first 3-point shot in college basketball history, will be on hand as the Catamount women host UNCG at 3 p.m. and the men battle chromatic rival Furman at 5:30 p.m. in the night cap.
 
To commemorate the historic 3-pointer, fans will be able to purchase a bit of history as a limited supply of commemorative "First Three" T-shirts will be on sale before the Catamount men's basketball game against Furman. The shirts will be available for purchase in the West concourse of the Ramsey Center at the WCU Bookstore merchandise stand.
 
Carr, who was inducted into the WCU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1999, is scheduled to be in attendance from 4:45 p.m. until shortly before the 5:30 p.m. tipoff of the men's game to meet and greet fans.
 
Dr. Carr sank the first 3-pointer in college basketball history on Nov. 29, 1980, at historic Reid Gymnasium on the WCU campus. The SoCon was one of just two conferences sanctioned to experiment with the long-range shot that ultimately revolutionized the game. Carr connected on the historic shot from the left corner of Reid court at the 16:09 mark of the first half in WCU's 77-70 victory over Middle Tennessee State. The ball he used is still on display at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass. 
 
"Making the first 3-point shot at Western Carolina was more than just a moment – it was basketball history," said Dr. Carr of his game-changing bucket. "I am proud that Catamount fans can celebrate the shot that changed the game and be part of that history by having a commemorative item that represents an accomplishment that every student and student-athlete, as well as administration can be proud of. It is "THE SHOT" THAT CHANGED IT ALL FOR COLLEGE BASKETBALL! Go Cats!!!"
 
Despite a career-ending injury suffered prior to his senior season, Dr. Carr was a 10th round draft pick by the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA. Serving as a student assistant as a senior, he received the "Most Courageous Athlete" award, given by the United States Basketball Writers Association. Carr finished his 3-year career at Western with 1,455 points over 81 games, which currently ranks 16th on the school's all-time list.
 
Additionally, immediately following Saturday's game, fans will be able to come down to the court and for $1 (cash only) attempt one 3-pointer from the Ronnie Carr 3 logo that adorns Ingles Court. If successful, the fan will win a Catamount basketball, while supplies last. Dr. Carr will be on the court cheering on those attempting the shot.
 
The men's game is part of a Catamount hoops doubleheader with the women's team facing UNCG at 3 p.m. on Ingles Court at the Ramsey Center. Both teams will celebrate their annual Senior Days on Saturday, with WCU also raising awareness for foster care and adoption through the One More One Less Project.
 
For tickets call 828-227-2401 or visit CatamountSports.com/BuyTickets.