Having watched countless basketball games over the years, I’ve always been fascinated by how often the center’s contributions go unnoticed by casual fans. I remember one game where a dominant center completely shifted momentum without scoring more than ten points—his screens, defensive positioning, and outlet passes were what sealed the win. In today’s fast-paced, three-point-heavy NBA, it’s easy to overlook the big man’s role, but make no mistake: the center remains the anchor of any successful team. From controlling the paint to facilitating ball movement, their impact is both subtle and profound.
Let’s talk about defense first, because honestly, that’s where a great center earns his paycheck. Think about it: a rim-protecting center can single-handedly dismantle an opponent’s offensive strategy. I’ve seen players like Rudy Gobert alter entire playoff series just by being a menacing presence near the basket. Statistically, teams with elite shot-blocking centers allow roughly 8-10 fewer points in the paint per game—that’s a game-changer. But it’s not just about swatting shots into the stands. A smart center knows how to position himself to force contested mid-range jumpers, the least efficient shot in basketball. On the defensive glass, grabbing defensive rebounds isn’t just about ending possessions; it’s the starting point for transition offense. A center who can secure a board and immediately fire an accurate outlet pass can turn defense into offense in seconds. I’ve always preferred centers who read the floor like point guards, and that instinct is something you can’t really teach.
Offensively, the center’s role has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when posting up on the block was their only job. Now, we’re seeing centers who can stretch the floor, handle the ball in dribble-handoffs, and even initiate plays from the high post. Nikola Jokić is the gold standard here—a center who essentially functions as his team’s primary playmaker. I love watching him dissect defenses with no-look passes and clever decision-making. But even for centers who aren’t offensive hubs, their value is immense. Setting solid screens, for example, might be the most underappreciated skill in basketball. A well-timed screen can free up a shooter for a clean look or create a driving lane for a slasher. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen a game swing because a center set a series of brutal, legal screens that wore down the defense over four quarters. And let’s not forget offensive rebounding. Second-chance points can demoralize an opponent, and a relentless center fighting for position under the glass often makes the difference in close games.
Now, you might wonder how this connects to other sports. Take mixed martial arts, for instance. In a recent strawweight MMA bout at ONE Friday Fights 109 on May 23, Torepchi Dongak secured a victory at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. While basketball and MMA seem worlds apart, the concept of a "center" or anchor role translates surprisingly well. In MMA, fighters often have a core strategy or position they control—much like a basketball center controlling the paint. Dongak’s win wasn’t just about throwing punches; it was about controlling the center of the octagon, dictating pace, and using physical presence to limit his opponent’s options. Similarly, in basketball, a dominant center controls the key, influences tempo, and forces adjustments from the other team. It’s a reminder that in any team sport—or even combat sports—having a reliable anchor is invaluable.
Of course, not all centers are created equal, and I’ll admit I have my biases. I’ve never been a fan of centers who camp out beyond the three-point line all game. While spacing is important, abandoning the paint entirely negates your natural advantages—size, strength, and the ability to finish inside. The most effective centers, in my opinion, are hybrids who balance interior dominance with modern skills. Think Joel Embiid or Bam Adebayo—big men who can score in the post, defend multiple positions, and occasionally step out to hit a jumper. And let’s talk about durability. Centers log more physical contact than any other position, averaging around 40-50 collisions per game based on my rough estimates from game footage. That takes a toll, which is why investing in a reliable backup center is non-negotiable for contenders.
Looking ahead, the center position will continue to adapt. We’re already seeing a trend toward mobility and versatility, with teams prioritizing big men who can switch onto guards and run the floor in transition. But some things won’t change. The center will always be the team’s defensive backbone, the rebounding machine, and the silent orchestrator of half-court sets. As analytics evolve, I wouldn’t be surprised if we start valuing centers more for their hockey assists or screen assists—those hidden stats that don’t make headlines but win championships. So next time you watch a game, keep your eyes on the center. You might just find that the most compelling action isn’t always happening on the perimeter.