Point forward

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Point forward is an unofficial playing position in basketball for those who share the attributes of both a point guard and a forward.

A point forward is usually described as a forward (either a small forward or a power forward) who possesses the attributes of a point guard. A point forward can bring the ball up court and direct a play, however, their size also causes match-up problems as bulkier forwards may not want to guard a point forward around the perimeter constantly. Point forwards are usually the team's primary ball-handler.

One of the first examples of an NBA point forward was John Johnson, who played the point forward role for the Seattle SuperSonics of the 1970s, alongside two guards who were more scoring-minded in Gus Williams and Dennis Johnson.^[1] Another noted example is Paul Pressey, who was used in the role by Coach Don Nelson for the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1980s.^[2]. Perhaps the most notable point forwards are Earvin "Magic" Johnson who, at 6'9", orchestrated the Showtime Lakers' offense and often played point guard, and Scottie Pippen who played with the Chicago Bulls, Portland Trailblazers and Houston Rockets.

One current NBA star that has this ability is LeBron James; he is originally a forward but is known to bring down the ball like a point guard. Lamar Odom is also a good example because he is entrusted to become the playmaker of his team at the power forward position. Another notable point forward in the NBA is Boris Diaw.

Anthony Mason, Larry Bird, Grant Hill, Tracy McGrady and Antoine Walker are other well known players who have demonstrated the ability to play this position in the past. The Italian NBA prospect Danilo Gallinari is also a point forward.

[edit] References

Basketball positions v • d • e
Guards		1. Point guard	Combo Guard (PG/SG)
		2. Shooting guard	Swingman (SG/SF)
Forwards		3. Small forward
		4. Power forward	Point forward (PG/PF)
Center		5. Center	Forward-center (PF/C)
Captain | Head coach | Referees and officials