Not sure how much you watched in the 80s or earlier but most of these legends made their money playing half court sets. If there had been a 3 pt line they would have adjusted their game. In their world a free throw line jumper was a good shot and layups / hooks, etc. Of course. They understood spacing and were masters at getting off good shots in the half court set. Transition was also an important part of the game,and for that defense was key. I think given a half a season or so a Cousy or Russell et al would have the hang of it and would start to school folks.