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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Brown said Josh Hart plays an integral role as a secondary ball handler behind Brunson or alongside second-year guard Tyler Kolek. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 17 Mar. 2026 Adding him would mean the Kings would still need a primary ball handler and offensive creator to take advantage of Wilson’s ability to finish. Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 15 Mar. 2026 When defending the pick-and-roll, the Horned Frogs often bring up a second defender for a hard hedge that slows down the ball handler. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Mar. 2026 Sid’s usually guarding the ball handler, and Addy’s on the wing. Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ball handler

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Ball handler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ball%20handler. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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