ball handler

noun

: a player who controls the ball in any of various games
especially : a player who is skilled at handling the ball (as in basketball)
ballhandling
ˈbȯl-ˌhan(d)-liŋ How to pronounce ball handler (audio)
-ˌhan-dᵊl-iŋ
noun

Examples of ball handler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Holmgren is just so dangerous from so many areas in the paint and mid range that accounting for Oklahoma City’s ball handlers and Holmgren as well is extremely difficult. Mikai Bruce, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 The intrigue: The Suns lacked a true point guard last season following Chris Paul's departure, and with Jones filling that role as the team's primary ball handler and distributor, the big three can focus on scoring and less on playmaking. Jeremy Duda, Axios, 22 Oct. 2024 His ability to stick with ball handlers through screens, disrupt dribbles, and stay engaged on defense will be crucial. Brian Sampson, Forbes, 17 Oct. 2024 This past season DeRozan as the ball handler in a pick n roll generated 1.06 points per possession, which is higher than players such as Jalen Brunson and Anthony Edwards. Mikai Bruce, Forbes, 5 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ball handler 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ball handler.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ball handler was in 1912

Dictionary Entries Near ball handler

Cite this Entry

“Ball handler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ball%20handler. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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