Basketball is all about teamwork. When the game is played correctly, the ball moves seemingly effortlessly to the open player, who puts it in for an easy layup. To reach this level of play, however, team members need to understand the roles of each basketball position: point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward and center.
The Point Guard
A point guard's role is to be the playmaker or decision maker of the team. His role is usually linked to distributing the ball to his teammates and calling plays when necessary. Point guards tend to be the smallest players on the team with excellent ball-handling and passing skills. During a game, the point guard's main role is to pass the ball to players in a position to score and achieve a high amount of assists.
Shooting Guard
A shooting guard's role is to be a good shot maker from both inside and outside the three-point line. Shooting guards often make cuts and set screens to put themselves in shooting position and are relied upon to make shots under pressure. These players are naturally tall, and rather than passing the ball to set up teammates, a shooting guard will take a high number of shots. This position is often referred to as the number two or the off guard.
Small Forward
A small forward needs to be a good scorer as well as a good defender. Versatility is important for small forwards as they need the height and power to be good under the basket as well as able to shoot from the outside. They are typically taller than point guards and shooting guards, allowing them to snare rebounds under the basket. This position is sometimes referred to as the three man.
Power Forward
Power forwards must be mighty rebounders and defenders. They need to be strong and speedy. Their main role is to get rebounds and blocks in both a defensive and offensive position, and they are usually among the tallest players on the team. Power forwards are sometimes called post players, as they spend the majority of their time in the low post position under the basket.
Center
The center is important in both offense and defense. On offense, the center needs to be able to rebound and score under the basket, and on defense rebounds and blocking are essential. The center is usually the tallest player on the court and often takes jump balls at the start of the game.
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