The small forward, or, colloquially, the three, is one of the five positions in a regulation basketball game. Small forwards are typically somewhat shorter, quicker, and leaner than power forwards and centers, but on occasion are just as tall. The small forward position is considered to be perhaps the most versatile of the main five basketball positions, due to the nature of its role. Most current NBA small forwards are between 6' 5"/1.96 m and 6' 10"/2.08 m in height.The typical placement for a small forward would be between the key and three-point line. Most small forwards are very versatile and very essential in a line-up.
Famous small forwards include Julius Erving, Rick Barry, John Havlicek, Chris Mullin, Grant Hill, James Worthy, Larry Bird, Bernard King, Scottie Pippen and many others.
Defense is often a major priority for small forwards, who are often counted on using their athleticism and size as defensive advantages. Shawn Marion of the Miami Heat and Tayshaun Prince of the Detroit Pistons who with their length and athleticism are able to guard any position on the floor and are often called upon to do so. Bruce Bowen of the San Antonio Spurs, while not a star offensive player, is a masterful and tenacious defender, both on the perimeter and closer to the hoop. Former small forwards known for their defensive abilities include Scottie Pippen, one of the best one-on-one defenders in the NBA for most of his career.