I’ve only heard this phrase in reference to basketball. It came into use after the three point shot was introduced. In basketball these days you can make three points on one play, with ONE SHOT – if you shoot from beyond the three point line. Before the three point line was added to the game, you could make three points on one play by making TWO SHOTS – getting fouled while making a regular 2-point basket and making your one free throw. So, in basketball today, “three the hard way” is the old TWO SHOT variety of scoring three points – not only does it take two shots, but you have to make the first shot while someone is fouling you at the same time.

Three The Hard Way Movie