backcourtmate

noun

back·​court·​mate ˈbak-¦kȯrt-ˌmāt 

plural backcourtmates

basketball

: a fellow guard on a basketball team : a player stationed on the backcourt with a fellow teammate

Scott won three NBA titles during 11 seasons playing with the Lakers … as Magic Johnson's backcourtmate.

—Tom Withers, Associated Press, 1 July 2010

Word History

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now