Forwards

The players listed as “Forwards” are usually players around 2 meters tall (6 ‘6 - 6’10 inches), quite athletic and versatile, which makes them the best fit for the so-called two-way players (both offensive and defensive minded). Forwards usually should play equally well outside and inside the paint, in most cases they are the most complex players on the court.

The two main positions for the forwards are small forward (SF, 3) and power forward (PF, 4). Like the two guard positions, those two forward positions are also a bit different. Small forwards are usually more outside oriented, playing mostly on the perimeter, they can shoot and drive to the basket, but they should be able to play on the low post as well, their length and athleticism helps the team’s defensive presence and rebounding. Power forwards are usually taller and bigger than the small ones, they are usually playing on the low post and participate in the rebounding.

In modern day basketball, quite a lot of teams are using the so-called “Stretch fours” which is a combination of both positions (SF and PF). Such a player is usually not so tall, his preferred position is SF, but he can play well at the low post, can guard bigger players than him and also has a good outside game. There are also forwards who can organize the offense and have the responsibilities of the guards, but they are still not so oftenly seen.