How The Basketball Positions Got Their Names

The player who jumped for the ball toss at center court after each made basket became known as the “center.” Centers were responsible for center jumps and roamed the floor to participate in offense and defense. Thus, centers were typically the tallest or highest leaping players available.

The center would tap the ball to a teammate, who would pass it forward to two players positioned up court on the left and right side of the opponent’s basket. These players became known as the “left forward” and the “right forward.” Forwards were responsible for scoring and offensive rebounds. Thus, the forwards were typically the most prolific scoring threats available.

The responsibility for defense fell on two players positioned to the left and right of their own basket, responsible for guarding the opposing forwards. These players became known as the “left guard” and the “right guard.” Guards were responsible for defense, defensive rebounds, and moving the ball up court into the hands of the forwards, via the pass or the dribble. Thus, the guards were typically the best ball handlers available.

And that is how the positions got their names.

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