backcourt

noun

back·​court ˈbak-ˈkȯrt 

1

: the area near or nearest the back boundary lines or back wall of the playing area in a net or court game

2

a

: a basketball team's defensive half of the court

b

: the positions of the guards on a basketball team

also : the guards themselves

a team with a strong backcourt

Examples of backcourt in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Doncic’s Lakers backcourt mate Austin Reaves totaled 26 points and 11 assists. —Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 3 Nov. 2025

The Cavaliers loaded up on shooting and experience in the backcourt this offseason, featuring San Francisco’s Malik Thomas and BYU’s Dallin Hall. —Jim Root, New York Times, 3 Nov. 2025

Who’s in the Wildcats’ backcourt? —Hunter Bailey, Charlotte Observer, 30 Oct. 2025

Then, on Sunday, Reaves delivered his own standout individual effort, prompting James to celebrate both members of the backcourt. —Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for backcourt

• abort
• airport
• alport
• athwart
• carport
• comport
• consort
• deport
• distort
• escort
• exhort
• extort

Kids Definition

backcourt

noun

back·​court -ˈkō(ə)rt 

-ˈkȯ(ə)rt

1

: a basketball team's defensive half of the court

2

: the positions of the guards on a basketball team

also : the guards themselves

a team with a strong backcourt