I think Steph showed people that deep threes need not be considered a bad shot. I could be wrong, but I doubt Caitlin Clark is allowed to take logo threes several times a game if Steph didn't show it can be an effective shot.

The other part to this is based on the role of the big guys. Back in the day big guys on defense didn't have to worry about guarding the 3. This means SGs today can get to the rim easier and have less of a need for mid range.

This was really apparent watching Caitlin Clark during march madness. When she drove the bigs on the other team could stay down low making her shots around the rim really difficult. She doesn't have the best mid range game and it was telling.

So back in the day when you had Mutombo sitting around the rim it would be advantageous to shoot a pull up jump shot rather than attacking the hoop.

On the other hand, if someone drops in to help you can kick it. There is no reason to shoot a long 2 over a 3 on a drive and kick.