The center, known as the “pivot” or “center” in English, is one of the most important players on any basketball team. Its role has evolved from the early days of the sport to the modern NBA, and understanding its functions, skills, and strategies is essential for coaches, players, and fans alike.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything about the center position: its history, technical skills, game mindset, key moves, training, and examples of the best centers in history.

1. Introduction: The Role of the Center in Basketball

Every basketball player has a defined position that determines their role on the court. The five classic positions are point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, and center. While the point guard organizes and leads the game, the shooting guard scores the most points, the small forward combines strength and speed, and the power forward operates both inside and outside the paint, the center is the backbone of the team.

The center occupies the area closest to the basket, known as the paint or low post. Their primary role is to control the game in that zone, grab rebounds, block defenders, and finish plays near the hoop with layups, hook shots, or dunks. Additionally, a modern center must participate in ball distribution and fast transitions, bridging the gap between inside and perimeter play.

2. History and Evolution of the Center

From the 1950s to the 1970s, centers typically played with their backs to the basket, focusing on dominating the paint. Centers were usually the tallest players on the team, tasked with grabbing offensive and defensive rebounds and finishing plays near the rim without moving too much. Legendary examples include Wilt Chamberlain, known for his scoring and rebounding dominance, and Bill Russell, a defensive specialist and leader of the Boston Celtics.

By the 1990s, the center position began to evolve. The modern NBA requires centers to be more versatile and mobile. Players like Shaquille O’Neal combined brute strength with agility, dominating the paint with intensity. Tim Duncan added technical skill and tactical intelligence to the low post, incorporating mid-range shots and strategic movements. Today, centers like Nikola Jokić not only dominate the paint but also distribute the ball and create plays from anywhere on the court, proving the position can be both integral and flexible.

3. Essential Technical Skills of a Center

A center doesn’t rely solely on physical strength; technique is fundamental for effectiveness. Key skills include low-post moves such as short shots, hook shots, pivots, and spins to receive the ball with their back to the basket and turn to attack or pass. They must also master layups and dunks, finishing quick plays near the hoop efficiently.

Blocking and rebounding are also critical. A center must create space for teammates through effective screens, secure offensive rebounds to generate second-chance points, and grab defensive rebounds to start fast breaks. Ball distribution is crucial; a skilled center can pass from the high or low post, swing the ball side to side, or make interior cuts to open passing lanes and facilitate the team’s offense.

4. The Center Mindset

Being a center requires not only technical skill but also a strong, strategic mindset. A center must be confident in controlling the paint and protecting the rim while making quick decisions on when to pass, shoot, or pivot. Physical intimidation is another trait: just their presence can deter opposing attacks. Resilience is essential, as constant contact and physical battles under the basket are typical.

Nikola Jokić summarizes it perfectly: “A center shouldn’t just score or rebound; they need to think the game like a coach while running with giants.”

5. Pivoting: A Center’s Key Movement

Pivoting is central to a center’s game. Pivoting means rotating on one foot while keeping the other planted, without sliding it. This is essential for receiving the ball with the back to the basket and gaining an advantage over the defender. There are two types of pivots: the forward pivot, which allows advancing or turning toward the basket, and the reverse pivot (drop-step), which allows stepping back or spinning to create space for a shot or pass.

When pivoting, it’s crucial to keep your head up, knees slightly bent, and pivot foot firm. A center must be able to pivot on either foot depending on the game situation. Pivot training involves repeated forward and backward turns with each foot, strengthening coordination and quick reaction.

6. Building a Complete Center: Comprehensive Training

Developing an elite center requires a holistic training approach combining technique, tactical intelligence, and mental strength.

Technically, a center must master short shots, hook shots, dunks, footwork, pivots, and spins. They must read the game to execute effective screens, anticipate rebounds, and strategically distribute the ball from both low and high posts.

Psychologically, a center must have confidence in every action, the intelligence to anticipate opponents’ movements, and persistence to maintain intensity in physical confrontations. Leadership is fundamental: a center communicates, organizes, and coordinates both inside and perimeter play.

7. Historical and Modern Center Examples

Throughout history, centers have been crucial in basketball’s evolution. Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell dominated the paint in the 1960s and 70s. Shaquille O’Neal and Tim Duncan redefined the position with strength, skill, and versatility. Today, Nikola Jokić and Joel Embiid exemplify modern centers, capable of scoring, rebounding, passing, and opening the game beyond the paint.

8. Fun Facts About Centers

Traditionally, centers rarely shot from mid-range or three-point distances. Today, some have incorporated long-range shots into their repertoire. The position demands a unique combination of strength, tactical intelligence, and mental agility. Centers create opportunities for teammates through screens and strategic passes, and while often the tallest on the team, the role requires quick thinking and anticipation.

Top WNBA Centers in 2025 – Best Active Pivots

En la WNBA moderna, las pívots han evolucionado hacia roles más versátiles, combinando fuerza, movilidad, tiro exterior y habilidades de playmaking:

Brittney Griner (Phoenix Mercury) – Considerada una de las jugadoras más dominantes de la liga, combina tamaño, fuerza y capacidad atlética. Su presencia en la pintura y habilidad para anotar y bloquear tiros redefine el rol de centro.

A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces) – Versátil y completa, capaz de anotar desde media distancia, capturar rebotes y liderar a su equipo. Su combinación de fuerza y habilidad ofensiva la hace una de las pívots más temidas.

Liz Cambage (Atlanta Dream) – Potente anotadora y reboteadora, con capacidad de tirar desde media y larga distancia, ofreciendo un juego interior versátil.

Jonquel Jones (Dallas Wings) – Gran defensora y reboteadora, con habilidad para generar juego ofensivo desde el poste y estirar la defensa rival con su tiro de media distancia.

Napheesa Collier (Minnesota Lynx) – Aunque más pequeña que las tradicionales pívots, su inteligencia de juego, rebotes y capacidad para pasar la pelota la hacen una pieza clave en el juego interior.

Teaira McCowan (Indiana Fever) – Especialista defensiva, dominante en rebotes y bloqueo de tiros, protegiendo la pintura y aportando consistencia a su equipo.

Satou Sabally (Dallas Wings) – Joven promesa con gran versatilidad ofensiva y defensiva, combinando manejo de balón, tiro exterior y habilidades para anotar cerca del aro.

NaLyssa Smith (Indiana Fever) – Pívot con excelente capacidad atlética y movilidad, aportando intensidad en defensa y opciones de anotación desde el poste bajo.

Allisha Gray (Atlanta Dream) – Aunque juega múltiples posiciones, su habilidad para defender y contribuir en la pintura la convierte en un recurso valioso como centro moderno.

Brianna Turner (Phoenix Mercury) – Gran defensora y reboteadora, con presencia constante en ambos extremos de la cancha y habilidad para liderar el juego interior.

🌟 Top 10 Future International Centers to Watch (2026–2028)

The world of women’s basketball is evolving, and the center position is no longer just about size. Modern centers combine agility, shooting, court vision, and defensive dominance. As we look toward 2025–2028, these ten international centers are the most exciting talents poised to make a global impact—potential future stars of the WNBA and professional leagues worldwide.

1. Awa Fam (Spain)

Spain’s rising star, Awa Fam, is already making waves in Europe despite her young age. Standing tall with impressive athleticism, she combines post moves, outside shooting, and playmaking that rivals seasoned professionals. Fam has already showcased her skills in Spain’s Liga Femenina and on the international stage, catching the eye of scouts worldwide. Projected as a top pick in the 2026 or 2027 WNBA Draft, she represents the future of versatile centers who can dominate inside while stretching defenses.

2. Dominique Malonga (France)

Dominique Malonga is the kind of center that teams dream of: physically dominant, a force on the boards, and capable of scoring in the paint. With years of experience in European leagues, she has developed a mature, intelligent game that will make her a formidable WNBA prospect. Her combination of strength, skill, and basketball IQ ensures she won’t just survive in the league—she’ll thrive.

3. Juste Jocytė (Lithuania)

At just 18, Juste Jocytė is already turning heads across Europe. Standing 6’2″, she possesses ball-handling skills and court vision unusual for her size. Her ability to orchestrate offense from the post makes her a modern center in every sense. Scouts predict she could become a “stretch five,” capable of drawing defenders out and creating space for her teammates, making her a top international prospect for the next WNBA drafts.

4. Zhang Ziyu (China)

China’s Zhang Ziyu is a towering 7’2″ presence who dominates the rim both offensively and defensively. Her performances in youth and professional leagues in Asia have earned her comparisons to legendary centers. With elite shot-blocking, post scoring, and sheer size, Ziyu has the potential to become one of the most physically imposing centers in global women’s basketball.

5. Olivia Vukosa (Croatia / NCAA)

Olivia Vukosa combines European fundamentals with NCAA experience, giving her a unique edge. At 6’4″, she’s a strong rebounder and defensive anchor who reads the game exceptionally well. Vukosa’s consistent double-doubles and intelligent positioning make her one of the most polished international prospects entering the WNBA pipeline in the coming years.

6. Kamilla Cardoso (Brazil)

Kamilla Cardoso has already tasted professional success, both in the WNBA and overseas. A dominant center, she combines scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence with impressive efficiency. In the 2025 season, she averaged 13.6 points and 8.5 rebounds, demonstrating that she can impact games on both ends of the court. Cardoso is a prime example of a young international player ready to make an immediate WNBA impact.

7. Iliana Rupert (France)

Experienced but still young enough to rise further, Iliana Rupert blends scoring, rebounding, and defensive awareness into a complete center package. She has excelled in European leagues and WNBA appearances, showing leadership and versatility. Rupert’s combination of experience and physical tools makes her both a current asset and a future star to watch.

8. Luisa Geiselsöder (Germany)

Germany’s Luisa Geiselsöder is already competing at a high level, including with the Dallas Wings in the WNBA and European leagues. A reliable rebounder and defender, Geiselsöder’s intelligence and consistency allow her to control the paint. With continued development, she is poised to become one of the premier centers on the international stage.

9. Anastasiia Kosu (Russia)

Anastasiia Kosu has earned recognition in international youth tournaments for her scoring, rebounding, and defensive impact. Her ability to consistently produce double-doubles and contribute to Russia’s senior team shows she can compete at the highest levels. Kosu’s blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ positions her as a potential future WNBA contributor.

10. Emerging U18/U20 Prospects

Finally, the next generation is already making noise. Players like Francisca Canello (Argentina) and other international rising stars are showing tremendous potential in youth tournaments across the globe. These young centers, while still developing, could emerge as breakout WNBA players between 2027 and 2028, continuing the trend of international talent reshaping the center position.

Top Centers in NBA History – The Greatest of All Time

Estos pívots no solo dominaron su época, sino que transformaron el juego con su combinación de altura, fuerza, técnica y liderazgo en la cancha:

Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar
Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar, born Lew Alcindor on April 16, 1947, in New York City, is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in history. His NBA career, spanning 20 seasons, made him the league’s all-time leading scorer with 38,387 points. Abdul‑Jabbar was known not only for his longevity and consistency but also for his refined technique and high basketball IQ.

The most iconic element of his game was the “skyhook”, a one-of-a-kind hook shot with his arm fully extended, virtually impossible to block. This signature move allowed him to score with unmatched accuracy, even against strong defenses and taller opponents. The skyhook became a symbol of his offensive dominance and set him apart from any other player of his era.

Beyond scoring, Kareem was a complete player, excelling on both ends of the court. He was an exceptional rebounder and a formidable defender, capable of protecting the rim and leading his team in crucial moments. His court vision, patience, and technique made him a true offensive and defensive anchor, inspiring future generations of big men.

During his career, Abdul‑Jabbar played mainly for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers, winning six NBA championships and earning six MVP awards. Beyond his numbers, Kareem stood out for his leadership, work ethic, and influence off the court, actively engaging in social and cultural causes.

Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar is remembered not only for his records but also for redefining the role of a modern center. He proved that a combination of skill, intelligence, and consistency can elevate a player to basketball immortality. His legacy continues to inspire players and fans worldwide, making him a true icon of the sport.

Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain, born June 21, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is considered one of the most dominant players in NBA history. Renowned for his incredible physical gifts, Chamberlain redefined what it meant to be a center, combining size, athleticism, and skill to dominate both offensively and defensively throughout his career.

Bill Russell
Bill Russell, born on February 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana, is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players and leaders in NBA history. Playing his entire career with the Boston Celtics, Russell won an unprecedented 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons, cementing his place as the most decorated player in league history. His dominance was rooted not in scoring, but in defense, rebounding, and leadership.

Russell’s presence in the paint was transformative. His shot-blocking, rim protection, and rebounding ability allowed him to control games defensively, turning opponents’ scoring attempts into opportunities for his team. His intelligence and anticipation on defense redefined the role of a center, making him the ultimate defensive anchor.

Offensively, Russell was a smart and efficient player. He excelled at passing, setting screens, and facilitating teammates, demonstrating that impact goes beyond points scored. His unselfish play and leadership on the court set the standard for team-oriented basketball.

Beyond his on-court achievements, Russell was a trailblazer off the court. He was a vocal advocate for civil rights, challenging racial injustice and using his platform to inspire change. His courage, integrity, and commitment to excellence made him a role model for athletes and leaders alike.

Bill Russell’s legacy endures not only for his record 11 championships, but for redefining the center position through defense, leadership, and team play. He proved that dominance in basketball is not only measured in points but in influence, intelligence, and the ability to lead a team to success.

Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal, born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey, is one of the most physically dominant centers in NBA history. Standing 7’1” tall and weighing over 300 pounds, Shaq combined size, strength, and surprising agility to overwhelm opponents in the 1990s and early 2000s. His ability to control the paint on both ends made him an immediate game-changer for every team he played on.

Shaq’s offensive game was nearly unstoppable. Known for powerful dunks, post moves, and finishes at the rim, he could score with ease against multiple defenders. His size also made him a force in rebounding and screening, creating opportunities for his teammates. Shaquille’s presence alone forced opponents to adjust their defensive strategies, highlighting his impact beyond the stat sheet.

Defensively, O’Neal was equally intimidating. He could block shots, protect the rim, and alter opponents’ plans, making him one of the most complete centers of his era. His combination of mobility and strength allowed him to dominate both small and large opponents, redefining the modern concept of an athletic big man.

Throughout his career, Shaq played for teams including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat, winning four NBA championships and earning three Finals MVP awards. Beyond his dominance on the court, he became a cultural icon, blending charisma, entertainment, and philanthropy with his basketball career.

Shaquille O’Neal is remembered not just for his statistics, but for his ability to change the dynamics of a game with sheer power, making him one of the most influential and celebrated centers in NBA history.

Hakeem Olajuwon
Hakeem Olajuwon, born on January 21, 1963, in Lagos, Nigeria, is celebrated as one of the most skilled and versatile centers in NBA history. Known for his exceptional footwork, technical mastery, and defensive prowess, Olajuwon redefined the role of a modern big man during the 1980s and 1990s. His career spanned over 18 seasons, mainly with the Houston Rockets, where he led the team to two NBA championships and earned the 1994 Finals MVP.

Olajuwon’s offensive game was defined by his legendary low-post moves, including his signature “Dream Shake,” which allowed him to score efficiently against defenders of all sizes. His combination of agility, balance, and creativity made him nearly impossible to stop near the basket. Beyond scoring, Olajuwon’s intelligence on the court allowed him to facilitate plays, find open teammates, and exploit defensive weaknesses with precision.

Defensively, Olajuwon was equally dominant. He was a career leader in blocked shots, a strong rebounder, and a master at reading opponents’ movements. His anticipation and timing allowed him to protect the rim, alter shots, and control the paint on both ends of the floor. This made him not only a scoring threat but also a game-changing defensive anchor.

Off the court, Olajuwon’s dedication to training, discipline, and strategic thinking contributed to his long-lasting career and consistent performance at the highest level. His work ethic and humility earned him respect among teammates, opponents, and basketball fans worldwide.

Hakeem Olajuwon is remembered as a complete center, combining offensive brilliance, defensive dominance, and tactical intelligence. His legacy continues to influence aspiring big men and remains a benchmark for excellence at the center position.

David Robinson
David Robinson, born on August 6, 1965, in Key West, Florida, earned the nickname “The Admiral” due to his service in the U.S. Navy and commanding presence on the court. Standing 7’1” tall, Robinson was one of the most versatile centers in NBA history, blending athleticism, intelligence, and leadership throughout his career with the San Antonio Spurs.

Robinson’s defensive skills were exceptional. He could guard multiple positions, block shots, and control rebounds, while maintaining agility and speed uncommon for a player of his size. His ability to anchor the defense and read the flow of the game made him a central figure in the Spurs’ success.

Offensively, Robinson combined power and finesse. He was effective in the post, could hit mid-range jumpers, and often facilitated ball movement, contributing to his team’s fluid offense. His leadership extended beyond statistics, serving as a mentor to teammates and helping build a culture of professionalism and accountability.

Over his career, Robinson achieved two NBA championships, was named MVP in 1995, and earned multiple All-Star selections. His impact extended off the court through philanthropy and community involvement, highlighting his role as a model athlete.

David Robinson is remembered for his versatility, defensive mastery, and leadership, balancing physical dominance with strategic intelligence. He remains a benchmark for big men seeking to impact every facet of the game.

Moses Malone
Moses Malone, born on March 23, 1955, in Petersburg, Virginia, was one of the most consistent and dominant centers in NBA history. Known for his relentless rebounding, scoring efficiency, and durability, Malone excelled throughout his 21-year career, playing for multiple teams including the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Atlanta Hawks.

Malone’s offensive game was centered on strength and positioning. He could score reliably in the post, using footwork, body control, and anticipation to outmaneuver defenders. His work ethic allowed him to maintain high-level performance throughout grueling seasons, earning him three MVP awards and a championship with the 76ers in 1983.

Defensively, Malone dominated the boards. He averaged over 12 rebounds per game in his career, controlling possessions and creating scoring opportunities for his teams. His physicality and relentless effort made him a nightmare for opposing centers.

Moses Malone is remembered not only for his rebounds and points but for his ability to maintain excellence consistently. His combination of durability, scoring, and rebounding mastery makes him one of the most reliable and impactful centers in NBA history.

Patrick Ewing
Patrick Ewing, born on August 5, 1962, in Kingston, Jamaica, is remembered as one of the most dominant centers of the 1990s. Playing primarily for the New York Knicks, Ewing was a commanding presence in the paint, blending size, strength, and skill to protect the rim and contribute offensively near the basket.

Ewing’s offensive game featured reliable post moves, mid-range shooting, and the ability to score under pressure. He was known for his consistency and ability to anchor his team’s offense during crucial moments. Defensively, Ewing excelled in shot-blocking, rebounding, and altering opponents’ offensive strategies. His presence often dictated how teams attacked the Knicks, making him a central figure in the league’s most competitive era.

Beyond statistics, Ewing’s leadership and work ethic defined his career. He served as a mentor to younger players and embodied professionalism on and off the court. Though he never won an NBA championship, his impact on the game is undeniable, solidifying his status as a Hall of Famer and a role model for future generations of centers.

Patrick Ewing’s legacy lies in his combination of offensive skill, defensive dominance, and leadership, demonstrating the full potential of a modern center in the NBA.

Robert Parish
Robert Parish, born on August 30, 1953, in Shreveport, Louisiana, is celebrated for his remarkable longevity and consistent high-level performance. Known as “The Chief,” Parish played 21 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Boston Celtics, winning four NBA championships.

Parish’s game centered on consistency and efficiency. Offensively, he excelled in the low post, utilizing a reliable mid-range shot and strong footwork to score. Defensively, he was a formidable rebounder and rim protector, controlling the paint with intelligence and positioning rather than sheer athleticism.

His durability and work ethic allowed him to maintain elite performance over two decades, making him one of the most reliable centers in history. Parish’s professionalism and calm leadership contributed to the Celtics’ dynasty, setting an example for teammates and future generations.

Robert Parish is remembered as a model of longevity, consistency, and team-oriented play, proving that disciplined skill and endurance can define a career as much as natural talent.

George Mikan
George Mikan, born on June 18, 1924, in Joliet, Illinois, is widely regarded as the NBA’s first true dominant center. Playing primarily for the Minneapolis Lakers in the 1940s and early 1950s, Mikan revolutionized professional basketball with his scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence, setting the foundation for the modern center position.

Mikan’s offensive game was groundbreaking for his era. Standing 6’10”, he used his height, skill, and fundamentals to score efficiently in the low post. He was a pioneer in developing post moves such as drop-steps, hook shots, and pivoting, which became essential techniques for future big men. His ability to dominate inside forced teams to rethink defensive strategies, making him virtually unstoppable near the basket.

Defensively, Mikan was just as influential. He protected the rim, controlled rebounds, and altered shots, establishing the blueprint for what a dominant center could achieve. His impact was so significant that the NBA introduced several rule changes to level the playing field, including widening the lane and instituting goaltending rules. These changes, now fundamental to the game, highlight how Mikan’s dominance shaped basketball itself.

During his career, Mikan led the Minneapolis Lakers to five NBA championships, earning multiple scoring titles and All-Star selections along the way. Beyond statistics, his leadership and competitive drive inspired teammates and set the standard for professional excellence. He also played a critical role in promoting the NBA during its early years, helping the league gain popularity and credibility.

George Mikan is remembered not only for his dominance on the court but also for his innovative contributions to the game. He redefined the center position, proving that size, skill, and intelligence could completely control both ends of the floor. His legacy lives on in every dominant big man who followed, from Bill Russell to Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar, influencing generations of players and shaping the evolution of professional basketball.

Mikan’s story reminds us that true greatness is measured not just by records, but by the ability to transform a sport and leave a lasting impact, making him a pioneer and icon in the history of the NBA.

🔥 Top NBA Centers in 2025 – Best Active Pivots

En la NBA moderna, los pívots han evolucionado hacia roles más versátiles, combinando fuerza, movilidad, tiro exterior y habilidades de playmaking:

Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets) – Considerado el pívot más completo del mundo, capaz de anotar, capturar rebotes y generar juego como un base desde el centro de la pintura. Su visión y creatividad redefinen la posición.

Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) – Joven estrella con combinación única de altura, manejo de balón y tiro exterior. Su versatilidad defensiva y ofensiva lo coloca entre los mejores del mundo.

Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks) – Gran defensor y anotador, con capacidad de lanzar desde media distancia y dominar en el rebote.

Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers) – Dominante ofensiva y defensivamente, combina anotación en la pintura, rebotes y juego estratégico, siendo líder de su equipo.

Kristaps Porziņģis (Boston Celtics) – “Stretch big” que ofrece tiro exterior y protección del aro, aportando profundidad al juego del equipo.

Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder) – Potencial joven que combina habilidades de tiro, defensa y manejo de balón, con proyección para liderar el juego interior.

Ivica Zubac (Los Angeles Clippers) – Rebotador y protector del aro, con consistencia en ambos extremos de la cancha.

Jarrett Allen (Cleveland Cavaliers) – Especialista defensivo y reboteador, contribuyendo al control de la pintura y las transiciones rápidas.

Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves) – Uno de los mejores defensores y taponadores de la liga, con gran presencia en bloqueos y rebotes.

Alperen Şengün (Houston Rockets) – Joven pívot con excelente habilidad para anotar cerca del aro y distribuir balones, con proyección ofensiva y defensiva.

Los pívots de hoy combinan la tradición del juego interior con nuevas capacidades: pueden tirar desde fuera, iniciar jugadas y moverse ágilmente por toda la cancha, conectando el juego interior con el perímetro.

Conclusion

The center is the backbone of the team, capable of changing the course of a game on both defense and offense. Their role combines technique, court vision, leadership, and physical resilience. Training a center requires perfecting shooting, rebounding, and screening techniques, along with developing mental and strategic skills to make quick decisions under pressure.

Having a great center can mean the difference between an average team and a championship contender. The position continues to evolve, but its importance in modern basketball is undeniable.