Power Forward (PF)

Power forwards are skilled players that spend most of the game inside the three-point line. Power forwards are like centers in where they position themselves on the floor. They line up somewhat down low; however, they are not a full center.

The power forward has many responsibilities, which include rebounding, defending the rim, playing in the post, and setting screens. They can also sometimes intimidate their opponents with their size. They post up, and block shots, some power forwards can shoot mid-range jump shots as well as three-pointers. Many teams want the power forward to be the best player on their team due to their crucial leadership and in-game roles.

Power forwards are known as post players because they stand near the high post and low post on the court. As a post player, the power forward will post up and shoot easy layups near the basket. Post players are also great at getting offensive rebounds. Power forwards are good post players and this also means they are usually good free throw shooters. Players who play down low in the low post are fouled more often than other positions.

Power forwards, like most positions, must be good at transitioning from offense to defense in a game situation. As a power forward, you should expect to spend most of your time inside the three-point arc and posting up. After going for a rebound or scoring power forwards must hustle back on defense as they are normally one of the better defensive players and are needed in the backcourt.

In the NBA, power forwards usually range from 6′ 8″ (2.03 m) to 7” (2.13 m) without shoes while in the WNBA, power forwards are usually between 6′ 0″ (1.83 m) and 6′ 3″ (1.91 m). Despite the averages, a variety of players fit “tweener” roles which finds them in the small forward or center position depending on matchups and coaching decisions. Some power forwards often play the center position and have the skills, but lack the height that is usually associated with that position.

When their team is on offense, the power forward is responsible for:

• shooting the ball inside the three-point line;
• making easy layups;
• posting up;
• sometimes shooting three-pointers when needed;
• physical play down low.

When their team is on defense, the power forward is responsible for:

• getting defensive rebounds;
• guarding and blocking offensive players;
• playing man or zone defense.

Power forwards are normally one of the more relied upon players on the defensive side of the ball.

Although the main duties of a power forward include posting up and setting screens, in today’s modern NBA, the power forward is a shooter, who can stretch their range all the way out to the three-point line. They are often called a stretch four if they are able to shoot from that distance. This change throughout history has allowed many players to play some power forward even though it is not their main position. Lebron James is a great example of that.

Some of the greatest power forwards in the history of the NBA include Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Dirk Nowitzki, Karl Malone, and Charles Barkley.

Example of how Power Forward is used in commentary: Kevin Love has proven to be a versatile weapon at the power forward spot, as he’s a great rebounder on the defensive end, but can stretch the defense with his three-point shot.