Basketball Positions

Small Forward

Small forward: Along with the shooting guard, the small forward is often the most versatile player on the basketball team. They're known primarily for their scoring and ball handling abilities. This position is usually handled by the most talented player on the court. The combination of height and quickness can allow them to defend a number of positions and take on the best scorer on the opposing team. Many great power forwards in the game today do not score a lot of points, but lead their team in rebounds.

Often the most talented team member. It is an advantage if the small forward is fast to tavel the court. Capable of attacking down the left or the right. Able to attack the net from the left or the right. Must be an adequate rebounder .Excellent passer with the left or the right hand. Should be a good shot blocker. Uses his great athleticism to the teams advantage. Often will be the player with the best all round skills.

Requirements of a Small Forward:

• Capable of playing with both hands
• Instinctive knowledge of basketball
• Ready to score and create when necessary
• Excellent in attack and defense
• Great shooter
• Great dribbling skills
• Great ball control
• Constant danger to the opposition
• Great passer
• All round team player
• Possess speed and quickness of foot
• Able to defend in all areas
• Excellent at strong defending
• Must be able to read defenses

Generally, for a team to be successful then the small forward will be basic in the scheme of things. Small forward is always close to the action. Needs to be constantly involved . Must be adequate at shooting, defending and dribbling, possessing good skills in everything.

Basketball Positions

Shooting Guard (Off guard)

They are the main shooter in the team all the same it is on the whole from long distance. Can also be called an "off" guard. This guard has similar duties to the point guard however in many instances doesn't bring the ball up the court. The player should be able to "catch and shoot. * The job of the shooting guard is to get open and think a shot or think one more open player to keep the ball moving.

As the name suggests the shooting guard has the job of scoring. Eventually the shooting guard will be the best shooter in the team, with the ability to score three pointers with some consistency. He will be taller than the point guard and will know how to move without the ball. Good positional play is crucial. A good ball handler and passer he will also possess quick and agile feet. Is the one who may assume the point guards role on occasion. .

Requirements of a Shooting Guard:

• Capable of playing with both hands
• Good knowledge of the game
• Ready to score and create when necessary
• Natural ability to run the team
• Quality shooter
• Excellent dribbling skills
• Great ball handler
• Constant threat to opponents
• Great passer
• Able to put points on the board
• Possess speed and quickness of foot
• Good movement in tight situations
• Excellent at hard-nosed defense
• Capable of reading defenses

Generally if a team is to be successful then the Shooting guard will be scoring three pointers with ease He will understand the offense, so that he can replace for the point guard should he be over played or leave the game. The main priority is to hit the basket and to assist others to do the same.

Basketball Positions

Power Forward

Like the point guard, the power, or strong forward, does not receive much recognition. The power forward plays a strong physical game, specialising on the rebounds and defence. Because of the nature of the job, they will spend much of the game close to the basket. They are post players and are broadly taller than the guards. He must be a solid rebounder, both offensively and defensively.

Usually a larger member of the team. A power forward is usually able to cover ground quickly. Comfortable attacking the ball under the post. His teams best at collecting rebounds. Quick and agile on the court. Must be able to defend when loose. Will use his physical presence. This position is for the player who has the best offensive rebound skills at power forward.

Main needs of a Power Forward:

• Strong player
• Good knowledge of the game
• Ready to score and create under the post
• Tackles the opposition at both ends
• Great shooter
• Excellent running with the ball
• Excellent ball handler
• Constant danger to opponents
• Excellent passing skills
• Agile, with speed and quick feet
• Can play defense anywhere
• Capable of playing strong defending
• Capable of reading defenses

Generally if a team is to be successful then the power forward will be fundamental to that success. Power forward is always around the post. Should have a good all round game. The man in the team with the gutzy attitude. Sometimes referred to as the enforcer.