How to Define the NBA's Frontcourt

NBA basketball is a worldwide sports league watched by millions every year both on live TV and in person. To the casual fan, some of the terms used during an NBA game can be confusing. In order to appreciate all the nuances of the NBA these terms need to be understood. One such instance is the term frontcourt.

Instructions

    • 1

      Know that there a three player position that make up an NBA frontcourt. There are small forward, power forward and center.

    • 2

      Understand that the small forward position is, as the name suggests, the smaller player of the three frontcourt positions. Usually the small forward will be a good shooter and very athletic. In addition, the small forward is sometimes a good defensive player that is able to guard smaller players.

    • 3

      Recognize that the center position in the frontcourt is usually the tallest and biggest player on the team. The primary job of a center in the NBA is rebounding and defense. In the past, the center was the focus of the offense, but today there are few true offensive centers left in the game.

    • 4

      Realize that the power forward position is a blend of the other two frontcourt positions. The power forward is very powerful and strong but at the same time quick and athletic enough to run the court effectively. One of the primary jobs of a power forward is to rebound the basketball.