What are the 5 Positions in Basketball

As a coach, you must understand the five positions in basketball. You need to develop a thorough understanding of the skills, duties, responsibilities, and fundamentals needed to play each basketball position.

By understanding each of the basketball players’ positions, you’ll be able to put your players in the position that is most suitable for them.

Not only will this help them develop their skills and fundamentals at that position, but it will also improve the overall success of your basketball team.

Too many times I’ve seen basketball coaches who had their players out of position, or in positions that the players weren’t skilled enough to play. The result was a lack of success and extreme frustration by the player, coach, and team.

To avoid this, you must improve your knowledge of the game, by improving your understanding of each of the five basketball positions.

Learn The Five Positions In Basketball

A basketball team consists of five positions. The basketball positions include two guards, two forwards, and a center. More specifically – a point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, and center.

Here is a brief overview of each of the five basketball player positions. For additional information on each position, click the links below…

• • • Point Guard – This player is usually the best ball handler on the team and is considered the team’s floor leader. Their main responsibilities include initiating the offense and controlling the tempo of the game.
    • Shooting Guard – This player is usually the team’s best shooter, and many times the most athletic. Their main responsibilities include driving to the basketball, perimeter shooting, and penetrating and passing to an open teammate.
    • Small Forward – This player is usually bigger than the guards, but smaller and quicker than the power forward. Their main responsibilities include shooting from the inside and outside, rebounding, and passing.
    • Power Forward – This player is usually bigger and stronger than the small forward and plays closer to the basket. Their main responsibilities include rebounding and scoring in the paint.
    • Center – This player is usually the tallest player on the basketball team and typically plays close to the basket on offense and defense. Their main responsibilities include rebounding, inside scoring, and blocking shots.