BASKETBALL POSITIONS

1. The point guard (PG), [2] also known as the one, is typically the team's best ball handler and
passer. Therefore, they often lead their team in assists and are able to create shots for themselves
and their teammates. They are often quick and are able to hit shots either outside the three-point
line or "in the paint", largely depending on the player's skill level. Point guards are looked upon as
the "floor general" or the "coach on the floor". They should study the game and game film to be able
to recognize the weaknesses of the defense, and the strengths of their own offense. They are
responsible for directing plays, making the position

2. The shooting guard (SG) is also known as the two or the off guard. Along with the small
forward, a shooting guard is often referred to as a wing because of its use in common positioning
tactics. As the name suggests, most shooting guards are prolific from the three-point range. Besides
being able to shoot the ball, shooting guards tend to be the best defender on the team, as well as
being able to move without the ball to create open looks for themselves. Some shooting guards also
have good ball handling skills, often creating their own shots off the dribble. A versatile shooting
guard will have good passing skills, allowing them to assume point guard responsibilities known
as combo guards.

3. Small forward
Main article: Small forward
The small forward (SF), also known as the three, is considered to be the most versatile of the main
five basketball positions. Versatility is key for small forwards because of the nature of their role,
which resembles that of a shooting guard more often than that of a power forward. This is why the
small forward and shooting guard positions are often interchangeable and referred to as wings.
Small forwards have a variety of assets, such as quickness and strength inside. One common thread
among all kinds of small forwards is an ability to "get to the line" and draw fouls by aggressively
attempting (post-up) plays, lay-ups, or slam dunks. As such, accurate foul shooting is a common skill
for small forwards, many of whom record a large portion of their points from the foul line. Besides
being able to drive to the basket, they are also good shooters from long range. Some small forwards
have good passing skills, allowing them to assume point guard responsibilities as point forwards.
Small forwards should be able to do a little bit of everything on the court, typically playing roles such
as swing men and defensive specialists. In the NBA, small forwards usually range from 6 feet
6 inches (1.98 m) to 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 m).[3]

4. Power forward[edit]
Main article: Power forward (basketball)
The power forward (PF), also known as the four, often plays a role similar to that of the center,
down in the "post" or "low blocks". The power forward is often the team's most versatile scorer, being
able to score close to the basket while also being able to shoot mid-range jump shots from 12 to 18
feet from the basket. Some power forwards have become known as stretch fours, since extending
their shooting range to three-pointers. On defense, they are required to have the strength to guard
bigger players close to the basket and to have the athleticism to guard quick players away from the
basket. Most power forwards tend to be more versatile than centers since they can be part of plays
and are not always in the low block. In the NBA, power forwards usually range from 6 feet 8 inches
(2.03 m) to 7 feet 0 inches (2.13 m).[4]
5. Center
Main article: Center (basketball)
The center (C), also known as the five, usually plays near the baseline or close to the basket (the
"low post"). They are usually the tallest players on the floor. The center usually scores "down low," or
"in the paint" (near the basket, in the key), but some can be good perimeter shooters. They are
typically skilled at gathering rebounds, contesting shots and setting screenson plays.
The center position has been traditionally considered one of the most important positions, if not the
most important. The range of players used in the position has transitioned from relatively slower but
much taller "back to the basket" players to players who would normally be classified as power
forwards but can dominate the position with their defensive skills, or mismatch ability to shoot from
the high post. This has been due to the scarcity of players possessing the combination of great skill,
ideal height, and durability. This has been matched by the development of more fast-paced and
athletic basketball play, which calls for less traditional center play and a more up-and-down the court
playstyle. In the NBA, centers are usually 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 m) or taller.