A Guide to Who’s Who in the Field and What They Do

Basketball is as much about positioning as it is about dribbling, passing and scoring.

Each player’s position plays a specific role, with its own purpose, responsibilities and style.

Let’s examine five basketball positions, what each player does and how they maintain the flow of the game.

The quarterback is often called a “floor general” for a reason. This player runs the show, organizes the games, directs traffic and generally controls the tempo. If a basketball team were a band, the point guard would be the conductor.

Known for their quick decision making, speed and great ball handling, playmakers ensure everyone is in the right place at the right time.

A playmaker needs sharp eyes and quick thinking and is often responsible for breaking defenses and making excellent assists. So, even though they don’t always score the most points, they’re usually a big reason everyone does it.

The shooting guard is usually one of the team’s best shooters and focuses on scoring from a variety of distances.

A shooting guard, he is known for making it rain from behind the three-point line and finding creative ways to score under pressure. They are like the secret weapon on the field; They are always hidden and ready to cause trouble at the most important moments.

The small forward is a versatile player who can do a little bit of everything.

In addition to a guard having shooting ability, they also need the strength to move towards the basket and play inside. The small forward is often thought of as a “do-it-all” player who is expected to score, defend, and rebound, making him one of the most dynamic players on the field.

Strong forwards bring muscle. They are generally strong and powerful (hence the name) and play close to the basket.

Power forwards are known for their rebounding and physical play in the paint, but modern power forwards often have solid mid-range and even three-point shooting skills, putting a strain on the defense.

The center is usually the tallest player on the court and works close to the basket.

Known as the “big man”, the center’s role is to dominate the paint, block shots, grab rebounds, and score low points. Traditionally, centers focus on using their size and strength to control play around the basket rather than finesse.

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