Kristian Ferrell
In the world of fantasy basketball, almost all leagues operate using either a points-based or category-based format. The category-based format, also known as the 8-cat format, includes eight default basketball categories: points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, threes (or 3-pointers), field-goal percentage, and free-throw percentage. The ninth default category is turnovers, which are usually the only difference between 8-cat and 9-cat leagues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of categories | 8 |
| Categories | Points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, threes, field-goal percentage, and free-throw percentage |
| Alternative categories | Double-doubles, triple-doubles, offensive and defensive rebounds, made field goals, made free throws, eFG%, TS% |
| Players | Nikola Jokic, LeBron James, Draymond Green, Evan Fournier, Kawhi Leonard, Kristaps Porzingis, Kyrie Irving, Trae Young, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, Luka Doncic, LaMelo Ball, Killian Hayes, Anthony Edwards, Cole Anthony, Duncan Robinson, Hassan Whiteside, Rudy Gobert, Mitchell Robinson |
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Points
Field goals can be scored from within or beyond the three-point line, resulting in two or three points, respectively. If a player is fouled in the act of shooting, they may be awarded an additional free throw, resulting in a three- or four-point play.
In the context of fantasy basketball, points refer to the scoring system used to determine a player's value. This can include scoring points, as well as other statistical categories such as rebounds, assists, and blocks.
Point guards, for example, can be categorised as either scoring point guards or facilitator-type point guards. Scoring point guards are typically good shooters and can score from three-point range or with dribbling moves to the basket. On the other hand, facilitator-type point guards may have a high basketball IQ and focus more on setting up plays for their teammates.
Overall, points are a crucial aspect of basketball, both in terms of the actual gameplay and in fantasy basketball leagues, where they can be used to evaluate a player's performance and contribution to their team's success.
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Rebounds
Rebounding is a crucial aspect of basketball, and it can significantly impact the outcome of a game. A rebound is the act of retrieving the ball after a missed shot. The player who gains clear possession of the ball or deflects it into the basket is credited with a rebound. There are offensive and defensive rebounds, depending on which team or player secures the ball.
Height and jumping ability are important factors in rebounding, as they allow players to reach higher and grab the ball. However, it is not solely about size and bounce; technique and positioning also play a significant role. Great rebounders like Dennis Rodman, despite being shorter than average, had an incredible sense of the ball's path and effectively boxed out their opponents. Boxing out involves positioning oneself between the opponent and the basket, blocking the opponent's path to the ball.
Some notable rebounders in NBA history include Wilt Chamberlain, who holds several rebounding records, including the most career rebounds in the regular season and the highest career average. Bill Russell and Bob Pettit are also renowned for their rebounding prowess, each leading the league in rebounding multiple times.
In fantasy basketball, rebounds are one of the eight default categories used to evaluate players' performance. Managers consider various factors when drafting players, including their rebounding skills, to construct a well-rounded team.
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Assists
Most of the assists in leagues come from the top point guards, with a few notable exceptions, such as Nikola Jokic, LeBron James, and Draymond Green. Assists generally only count when a pass leads to a field goal. In the NBA, a pass that leads to a shooting foul and scoring by free throws does not count as an assist, but it does in FIBA play.
Coaches can promote assists during practice by praising passing every bit as much as making a basket. This can help players realise the importance of passing to open teammates and change the mentality that scoring is the most important thing on the court.
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Steals
A steal occurs when a defensive player causes an offensive player to lose possession of the basketball, primarily by legally taking it away, intercepting a pass, or deflecting a pass or dribble. The defender who successfully takes, deflects, or intercepts the ball is credited with a steal, while the offensive player who lost possession is credited with a turnover.
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Blocks
In basketball, a block, also known as a blocked shot, occurs when a defensive player legally deflects or stops a shot attempt by an offensive player. Blocks are one of the eight default categories in fantasy basketball, along with points, rebounds, assists, steals, 3s, FG%, and FT%. Blocks are considered scarce in this context, as they are hard to find after the draft.
To execute a block, a defensive player uses one or both hands to nullify or deflect an offensive player's shot attempt. This can be done by making legal contact with the ball, either while it is in mid-flight on an upward trajectory or at its apex. It is important to note that the defender cannot make contact with the offensive player's hand unless they are also touching the ball, or a foul will be called. If the ball is on its way down when it is hit, it is considered goaltending and is counted as a successful basket for the offensive team.
Post players, such as power forwards and centers, typically record the most blocks due to their height and proximity to the basket. However, shorter players with good jumping ability, like Dwyane Wade, can also be effective blockers. A player with shot-blocking skills can significantly improve their team's defense, making it more challenging for opponents to score near the basket. Additionally, a blocked shot that stays in play can lead to a fast break, providing an opportunity for a quick counterattack.
To be an effective shot-blocker, players need excellent court sense, timing, and height or jumping ability. Intimidation is also a tactic used by shot-blockers, where they can influence opponents to alter their shots, leading to missed attempts. One notable type of block is the chase-down block, where a player pursues an opponent on a fast break and blocks their shot attempt, often hitting the ball into the backboard. LeBron James is known for his exceptional chase-down blocking skills, with 23 blocks recorded in the 2008-09 NBA season.
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Frequently asked questions
The eight default basketball categories are points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, threes, field-goal percentage, and free-throw percentage.
The 8 basketball categories are used in fantasy basketball, where players create fictional teams, select professional basketball players to "play" on these teams, and calculate points based on the players' real-world performance.
The eight categories are the same in both league types, but turnovers are added as a ninth category in 9-cat leagues.
League commissioners sometimes experiment with other categories, such as double-doubles, triple-doubles, splitting offensive and defensive rebounds, or changing the way field goal efficiency is measured.
