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Thepower forward (PF), also known as thefour, is one of the five traditionalpositions in a regulationbasketball game. Traditionally, power forwards have played a role similar tocenters and are typically the tallest or second tallest player on the court. They are also usually leaner than centers. During an offensive possession, the power forward typically plays with their backs toward the basket and are typically a "go-to" position in regard to scoring in thepost. In apick and roll offense, the power forward typically sets a screen for a guard and "rolls" towards the basket to receive a pass (or "pops" towards the perimeter for an open shot). When ondefense, they typically position themselves under the basket in azone defense or against the opposing power forward inman-to-man defense.[5] The power forward position entails a variety of responsibilities, includingrebounding,screen setting,rim protecting, and scoring.[6]
Many power forwards are noted for their mid-range jump-shot, and several players have become very accurate from 12 to 18 feet (3.7 to 5.5 m). Earlier, these skills were more usually exhibited in the European style of play. Some power forwards, known asstretch fours, have since extended their shooting range to includethree-point field goals.[7]
In theNBA, power forwards usually range from 6' 9" (2.06 m) to 7' 0" (2.13 m) while in theWNBA, 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 thesmall forward or center position depending on matchups and coaching decisions.[8] Some power forwards, such asDraymond Green and even 6' 5" (1.96 m)P. J. Tucker, have played at thecenter position, possessing the skills, but lacking the height that is usually associated with the position.[9]
Power forwards who have been inducted in theNaismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame includeKarl Malone,Lauren Jackson,Vern Mikkelsen,Tina Thompson,Dirk Nowitzki,Chris Webber,Kevin Garnett,Dolph Schayes,Kevin McHale,Charles Barkley,Dennis Rodman,Elvin Hayes,Bob Pettit,Jerry Lucas,Dave Debusschere, andTim Duncan.
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Some power forwards are noted for their perimeter shooting, both from the mid-range and three-point distance. Since the 2000s, several power forwards have become very accurate from 12 to 18 feet (3.7 to 5.5 m). Earlier, these skills were more typically exhibited in the European style of play. Some power forwards, known asstretch fours, have since extended their shooting range to includethree-point field goals.[7] Some stretch fours utilize their mid-range scoring in the post.Dallas Mavericks franchise playerDirk Nowitzki utilized thefadeaway shot to great effect. Stretch fours have also proven to be reliable in certain pick and roll designs, in which the power forward "pops" away from the basket for an open shot if the guard is being doubled while moving off of a screen. 6'10" (2.08m) power forwardAmar'e Stoudemire utilized the "pick and pop" play to great effect while playing withSteve Nash on thePhoenix Suns from 2004 to 2010. Notable examples of stretch fours includeJayson Tatum,Robert Horry,Al Horford,Rasheed Wallace, Amar'e Stoudemire, Dirk Nowitzki,Carmelo Anthony,Kevin Love, andSteve Novak.
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