Paint

/peɪnt/
[ pay-nt ]

Definition of Paint

In basketball, 'Paint' is the area inside the key or free-throw lane.

What is Paint?

What is ?

In basketball terminology, the 'Paint' refers to the area enclosed by the free-throw lane. It is also known as the key. The term originates from the time when that area of the court was actually painted in a different color to distinguish it from the rest of the playing surface. The paint is often a focal point of offensive and defensive strategies, as it is near to the basketball hoop.

Examples of how to use the basketball term Paint

What is ?

  1. The player drove through the paint to score a two-pointer.
  2. Defensive strategies often focus on controlling the paint.
  3. One of his strengths is drawing fouls in the paint.

Paint Strategy Tips

What is ?

Controlling the paint is key to success in basketball. It offers great scoring opportunities and presents an advantage in rebounds.
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What does Paint mean in Basketball?

In basketball, 'Paint' refers to the area enclosed by the free-throw lane, also known as the key.

How would you explain Paint in layman's terms?

Imagine the basketball court. Now picture the area under the hoop that goes up to the free-throw line; that's the paint.

Why is it important to control the paint in basketball?

Controlling the paint is very important as it offers great scoring opportunities and proves advantageous in rebounds.

Why is it called 'Paint'?

It's called 'Paint' because in the earlier days of basketball that area of the court was actually painted in a different color to distinguish it from the rest of the playing surface.

Can positions other than center and power forward play in the paint?

Yes, any player can enter or play in the paint, but it's historically the area where centers and power forwards, the tallest players, usually operate.

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