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According to the 2012-2012 Basketball handbook it became an optional rule in 1985(by state association adaptation) before it became a nationwide rule in 1987-88. Before that time IIRC there were a few states that expirimented with the rule. I recall Iowa and North Dakota being 2 states that expirimented with the rule prior to 1985(85-86 season). It was at 19 feet in 1985 before going to the 19'9" distance in 1986 where it remains today.
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