You the Dad Too often, vertically challenged fathers with a history of desk jockeying and a penchant for fine literature or film are expected to turn into basketball coaches. Once their kids realize that success on the playground basketball hoop and, in turn, the school's more elite social circles, it's time for Pop to lay down his newspaper and figure out why he was so terrible at this sport some 30 years past. While we won't offer any specific solutions, we'd like to run down a little refresher course so you can rap a little with your child or anybody else who may be immensely more versed in basketball terminology than you. A quick primer We will assume you are familiar with the fundamentals; there are fouls, shots, tip-offs, rebounds, and a game is generally comprised of two halves. In addition: |  |
Backcourt
Used to refer to the half of the court opposite the half where play is currently taking place.
Boxing out
Defensive tactic of using your body to prevent players on the opposing team from getting the rebound.
Charging
Forever a controversial call, charging is a foul called when the offensive player in possession of the ball runs into a defender with an established position. Naturally, the call is at the center of endless debates and almost always completely subjective in nature.
Downcourt
Something of the opposite of the backcourt. Downcourt is in the direction of the offense's goal. That is, from their backcourt to the frontcourt towards their basket.
Flagrant foul
Simply stated, it is excessive and unnecessary contact against an opponent. Much like charging, it is often a controversial, subjective call.
Foul lane
Area underneath the basketball hoop bordered by the end line behind the hoop and the foul line, or free throw line. Players line up along it during free throws, and offensive players are not allowed more than three seconds inside it during play.
In the paint
Phrase used to describe a player's position inside the foul lane, usually painted a different color.
Low post
An area outside of the foul lane and close to the basketball hoop that is not marked in anyway on an official court. Important for delivering directions to players.
