Basketball Starting Positions

A basketball team is one that tries to be strong at all five starting positions. Each position is given a different role which is highly variable based on the player's size, skills, and abilities. Here is a brief look at each position and what each player should bring to the team.

Point Guard

The point guard on the team is often the smallest player on the team. They depend on their speed and ball handling abilities. Because they are the ones that bring the ball up the court, they need to have good court vision and great passing abilities. Because they often play on the perimeter, they should focus on their three point jump shot or their strong layups. If they are strong, though, they can post up smaller, weaker point guards. Due to their quickness, they often lead their teams in steals and because they have the ball a majority of the time, they have a high amount of assists.

Shooting Guard

The shooting guard is mainly used for what they sound like - they are used for shooting. Because of their size, they can be effective when shooting, but they have enough power and speed to get to the hoop. Because of this combination, they should have a tendency of getting to the hoop and being able to make free throws.

Small Forward

The small forward of a basketball team has a wide range of tasks. Because they have a solid height, they can be used to shoot ball or drive it. They have a tendency of being one of the better defenders on the team due to their arm length. A three point shot is usually used for them. If they have quality upper body strength, they can be very effective when driving to the basketball hoop.

Power Forward

The power forward has changed over the years. In the past, the typical power forward was one who had post moves and a tall reach. They were used to rebound the ball and used to contest the opponents shot with their long reach. However, the power forward has changed. Now, a twenty foot jump shot is a critical key, as they can draw the defender out of the post. Some power forwards have been known to hit three pointers, too, which helps spread out the defense but loses some offensive rebounding potential.

Center

A center is a big body that rebounds and defends the paint. They don't have quickness, so they depend on power. Their long arms create a problem for smaller players when driving to the hoop. The center on a team usually had a high amount of blocks and rebounds. Because they are so close to the basket, they should shoot a high field goal percentage.

Wikipedia, Basketball position