The 5 Basic Positions in Basketball
Basketball players need to fill 5 positions on the court that most coaches will play in a regular game. If you’re new to the game then understanding the five positions is important.
You need to understand what is required of each position, what the job or goal is for each position and the importance of the position to the overall game play. This will help you to be able to take on a position and play it to the best of your ability.
Position One: Point guard
The point guard is usually the fastest player on the team because he or she will be moving around a lot on the court and needs to be able to maneuver quickly. The point guard is responsible for organizing offensive play getting the ball where it needs to go.
Position Two: Shooting guard
The shooting guard is strictly responsible or shooting the ball and making baskets on offensive play. On defense the shooting guard is responsible for guarding the best player on the opposing team’s perimeter.
Position Three: Small forward
The small forward scores via cuts and dribble penetration. This is usually a player that is very good at maneuvering and possibly is the shortest player on the team. The small forward has to be very good at getting past the players on the opposing team. This also is due to the fact that on defense the small forward is responsible for rebounding the ball and making steels.
Position Four: Power forward
The power forward on offense stands with their back to the basket. They are guarding and watching for the perfect chance to take the ball and score. On defense the power forward plays under the basket to get rebounds or against the power forward on the other team to block or intercept.
Position Five: Center
The center uses his size to score. He is usually quite tall and plays at center court. The center usually makes half court shots, but can move about the court and pass the ball to get it at the basket for the shot. On defense the center protects the basket and grabs rebounds.
The coach can change out players as he or she sees fit to switch up the different positions. Some teams may have a different player for offense than for defense, while other teams keep the line up the same. It all depends on the coach and the team.
In general these positions are played in all types of basketball games, even those outside or informal games. The positions all are going after that main goal of making baskets and preventing the other team from making baskets. Players have to learn to play their position while also working with the other players in a team effort. It is important that everyone understands the different positions even if they only play one certain position. This will help to create the synergy that it takes to be the winning team on the court.
Tags: o, p, portable basketball hoops, portable basketball systems, portable goals, R, Recreation & Sports, s, sport, Sports