Over the past few decades, the role of centers in the NBA has undergone a dramatic transformation. The 1xBet platform also comes with online bets for major sport events of this competition too.
Traditionally, centers were the dominant figures in the paint, responsible for 3 things:
- rebounding;
- shot-blocking;
- and post-scoring.
They were often the focal points of offenses, playing with their back to the basket and imposing their size and strength on opponents. The online bets at 1xBet also feature options for major sports events from the NBA and other big tournaments.
However, the evolution of basketball has come with an increasing emphasis on 3 things: pace, space, and 3-point shooting. This has reshaped the center position in ways that few could have predicted.
The classic players
In the early 2000s, towering figures like Shaquille O’Neal and Tim Duncan exemplified the classic center role. You can also play 1xBet casino and win while waiting for other great basketball centers.
Their skills were centered around low-post dominance and rim protection, making them vital to their teams’ success. But as the NBA became more fast-paced and the 3-point shot gained prominence, teams began prioritizing versatility and skill development over traditional size. Everybody is now invited to play at the 1xBet casino, and here it will be possible to win great rewards prior to a new great NBA match.
Contributing to the offense
One of the most significant changes has been the rise of the “stretch 5”. They are centers who can shoot from beyond the arc. 3 players who have succeeded here are Nikola Jokić, Joel Embiid, and Karl-Anthony Towns. These kinds of players are expected not only to anchor the defense but also to space the floor and contribute offensively from the perimeter. It is also possible to win with basketball betting online at the 1xBet platform when wagering on versatile basketball players.
Jokić, in particular, has redefined the position with his exceptional passing and playmaking, making him a hub of his team’s offense. This shift allows teams to spread the floor, create mismatches, and adopt more dynamic offensive strategies.
Defensively, the center’s role has also evolved. Instead of simply protecting the rim, modern centers must be capable of guarding multiple positions, switching on screens, and defending pick-and-rolls at the perimeter. This requirement has placed a premium on agility and mobility, attributes that were once not associated with traditional centers. Everybody is invited to have a chance to win with basketball online betting offered by the 1xBet platform, where the best names from this sport can be wagered.