Center (basketball position)

The center is a key basketball position typically filled by the tallest player on the team. Positioned near the basket, their primary roles include blocking shots, rebounding missed shots, and scoring close to the hoop. They often serve as a defensive anchor and are crucial for controlling the paint area. Centers need strength, agility, and good timing for shot-blocking and rebounding. Offensively, they frequently score from post-ups or put-backs. Overall, the center's presence influences both defensive stability and inside scoring, making them vital to a team's success on both ends of the court.