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.
Assists Out of Pick-and-Rolls and Dribble Handoffs As stated above, one of the more intriguing elements of Johnson’s playmaking is his ability to operate as the ball handler in pick-and-roll and dribble handoff situations. Joel Rush, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 Sheppard still has improvement to make as a point-of-attack defender and poise as a ball handler amid pressure. Kelly Iko, New York Times, 24 July 2025 Bane -- who is also a solid ball handler and plus defender -- is much more than just an excellent shooter, though. Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025 The Heat needs a ball handler, playmaker in the worst possible way. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 26 June 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ball handler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ball%20handler. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!