 Basketball Terminology and Information
Point Guard (PG), also known as "the ball-handler," is usually quicker and shorter than even a shooting guard, the more speed a point guard has, the more likely he/she will be able to create separation and space off the dribble, which allows the guard room to work. While a shooting guard's primary responsibility is to score points through perimeter shooting, a true point guard's job is to create scoring opportunities for his team. He does this by passing, setting up plays on the court, getting knowledge of the game and skill. They usually exert a leadership role on the floor similar to that of a quarterback.
The Shooting Guard (SG), also known as the two or off guard,[1] is often shorter, leaner, and quicker than forwards. A shooting guard's main objective is to score points for their team.[1] Some teams ask their shooting guards to bring up the ball as well; these players are known informally as "combo guards". A player who can switch between playing shooting guard and small forward is known as a swingman. Other characteristics a shooting guard should have are: A good catch-and-shoot skill set, (being able to line up at a designated spot, catch the basketball and make a shot without dribbling). Shooting guards also typically show an ability to penetrate into the basketball lane, and finish at the rim, by either a dunk or layup.
The Small Forward, or the three, is typically somewhat shorter, quicker, and leaner than power forwards and centers, but on occasion are just as tall. The small forward position is considered to be perhaps the most versatile of the main five basketball positions, due to the nature of its role. Most current NBA small forwards are between 6'5" and 6'11" in height. Small forwards are primarily responsible for scoring points and also often as secondary or tertiary rebounders behind the power forwards and centers, although a few who play as point forwards have considerable passing responsibilities. Many small forwards in professional basketball, however, are prolific scorers. Defense is often a major priority for small forwards, who are often counted on using their athleticism and size as defensive advantages.
Power forward, or the four, play a role similar to that of center in what is called the "post" or "low blocks". They play offensively with their back to the basket on offense and position themselves defensively under the basket in a zone defense or against the opposing power forward on defense in man-to-man defense. Typically, a power forward is one of the larger players on the court, not as tall as the center but more muscular. They are usually expected to be aggressive when pursuing rebounds and score most of their points on the low post (no more than six feet (2 m) from the basket), as opposed to taking jump shots from farther away. Power forwards can be imposing presences on defense, but they usually defer to the center for blocking shots and general intimidation.
The Center, or the five, is normally the tallest on the team, and often has a great deal of strength and body mass as well. A typical NBA center is 6'10" (2.08 m) or taller. In many cases, the center's primary role is to use his or her size to score and defend from a position close to the basket. A center who possesses size along with athleticism and skill constitutes an unparalleled asset for a team. The centers are also generally the players who are chosen to take jump balls.
The Sixth Man, or the role player, is very important factor of the team. He/She is a player who is not a starter but comes off the bench much more often than other reserves, often being the first player to be substituted in. The sixth man often plays minutes equal to or exceeding some of the starters and posts similar statistics. He is often a player who can play multiple positions, hence his utility in substituting often.
Source: www.Wikipedia.com
Basketball Court
This diagram shows the standard measurements for American high school, college, and professional basketball courts. The free throw lane and its adjoining circle form an important strategic area of the court, commonly referred to as the key. Major basketball competitions usually take place on hardwood floors in indoor gymnasiums or arenas.
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1980 NBA Finals (Magic Started at Center)
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