The giant of the basketball team, the center (also known as The Post), is the tallest and often the strongest player on the court. They look to create offensive opportunities close to the basket, whether through a rebound or a pass from a teammate. Centers are critical in guarding the basket, spending their time often as the last line of defense, blocking shots, scoring inside, and securing rebounds.
Key Responsibilities
Centers must be proficient in guarding the basket from opposing players, blocking shots near the rim, and taking securing rebounds in both the offense and defense. Other key responsibilities include shooting and scoring close to the basket through various plays and, in the modern day, potentially taking chances at mid-range or three-pointers if the opportunity presents itself.
Evolution of Post Player Dynamics
Until recently, it was an anamoly for a center to be able to hit a 3-pt shot. In the past, it was rare that the post player ever ventured outside of the key, let alone the 3-pt line. However, in today’s basketball, Centers are expected to be versatile.
The evolution of centers, as well as power forwards in shooting from longer distances, speaks to the gradual development of the game and the talent of these players in expanding their repertoire of play.
Role on Offense
Post players offense near the basket, centers look to take advantage of rebounds from the offense or defense to facilitate playmaking. Centers aim to score close to the basket, whether via a layup, a dunk, or short-range shots. As mentioned, the center role has evolved, and now the most skilled post players shoot from the mid-range and 3-pt line alike. If you look at Nikola Jokic or Victor Wembanyama, you’ll find that their dmoinance on the court results from two things: they will score when they get the ball near the basket, and you can’t leave them wide open at the three pt-line. This forces the defense to play close up even at the 3-pt line, allowing for a more widely spread out defense that is easier to penetrate.
