What Do Centers Do in Basketball? Key Roles & Skills

By Sarah Miller · March 18, 2034

In basketball, centers are typically the tallest players on the team and play near the basket, focusing on scoring close to the rim, rebounding, shot-blocking, and anchoring the defense. They serve as interior anchors on both offense and defense, setting screens, protecting the paint, and facilitating ball movement from the post.

What Is a Center in Basketball?

The center is one of the five traditional positions in basketball, usually wearing jersey numbers 4 or 5. Positioned closest to the basket, centers dominate the paint area—both offensively and defensively. Modern NBA centers have evolved to include floor-spacing capabilities, but their core responsibilities remain rooted in interior presence.

Primary Responsibilities of a Center

Defensive Anchor: Protect the rim by blocking shots and deterring drives.
Rebounding: Secure possession after missed shots on both ends of the floor.
Post Scoring: Score efficiently near the basket using hooks, dunks, and drop steps.
Screen Setting: Create space for guards by setting solid picks in pick-and-roll actions.
Interior Defense: Contest shots, rotate effectively, and guard opposing big men.

How Do Centers Impact Team Performance?

A dominant center can significantly elevate a team’s performance. Their ability to control the paint influences opponent shot selection, increases defensive efficiency, and creates second-chance opportunities through offensive rebounds.

Offensive Contributions

Centers contribute by finishing lobs, operating from the high or low post, and increasingly, stretching the floor with three-point shooting. Players like Nikola Jokić have redefined the role by acting as primary playmakers.

Defensive Influence

Elite centers alter opponents’ game plans. Teams with strong rim protectors allow fewer points in the paint and force perimeter jump shots, which are statistically less efficient.

Player	Team (2024)	PPG	RPG	BPG	FG%
Nikola Jokić	Denver Nuggets	26.9	12.2	0.9	58.3%
Joel Embiid	Philadelphia 76ers	34.7	11.0	1.2	54.8%
Domantas Sabonis	Sacramento Kings	20.0	12.7	1.1	60.3%
Anthony Davis	Los Angeles Lakers	24.0	12.6	2.3	59.2%
Brook Lopez	Milwaukee Bucks	13.3	4.4	1.6	47.7%

Table data source:NBA.com, Basketball Reference

The data shows that top-tier centers combine scoring efficiency (high FG%) with rebounding dominance and defensive impact. Joel Embiid leads in scoring, while Sabonis and Jokić showcase elite rebounding and all-around production. Anthony Davis stands out with the highest blocks per game, emphasizing his defensive value.

Evolution of the Center Position

Historically, centers were purely post players focused on physicality. Today, versatility defines success. The modern center must defend multiple positions, switch on screens, and ideally shoot from distance. Examples include Kristaps Porziņģis and Brook Lopez, who average over three three-point attempts per game.

Traditional vs. Modern Centers

Traditional: Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell – dominated through size and athleticism.
Modern: Nikola Jokić, Rudy Gobert – blend skill, IQ, and specialized roles (defense or playmaking).

Frequently Asked Questions About Centers in Basketball

What do centers do in basketball?

Centers play near the basket, focusing on rebounding, shot-blocking, scoring in the post, and defending the paint. They often set screens and act as the last line of defense.

How tall is an average NBA center?

The average NBA center stands around 6'10" to 7'0". As of 2024, many starters range from 6'11" to 7'2", giving them a reach advantage in the paint.

Can a center shoot three-pointers?

Yes, many modern centers like Brook Lopez and Nikola Vučević regularly shoot threes. Floor-spacing big men are increasingly valuable in today’s pace-and-space NBA.

Who is the best center in the NBA right now?

As of 2025, Nikola Jokić and Joel Embiid are considered the top centers. Jokić excels in playmaking and efficiency, while Embiid combines scoring, defense, and MVP-level performance when healthy.

Do all centers need to be tall?

While height is a major advantage, skill and intelligence matter too. Players like Draymond Green (6'6") succeed as de facto centers due to high basketball IQ, strength, and defensive versatility.

Why is the center position important in basketball?

The center controls the paint, impacts both scoring and defense near the basket, and often dictates tempo through rebounding and rim protection. A strong center improves team efficiency on both ends.