front court

American  

noun

1. the section of the court nearest the front wall in certain games, as squash or handball.

2. Basketball.

   1. a team's offensive half of the court.

   2. the players who play offensively in the front court, including the center and the two forwards.

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Etymology

Origin of front court

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

That forced the Aces to run some sets with Wilson at small forward and a much-larger front court in front of her before NaLyssa Smith ran into foul trouble.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

But Ogwumike is the kind of player whom the Sparks could build a competitive campaign around, especially with a front court in which she plays alongside Brink.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

The ball went to Young in the backcourt, who dribbled into the front court and knocked down a 29-footer over Brown.

From Washington Times • Apr. 25, 2023

The bigger problem for the Hawkeyes was the call meant a fourth personal foul for the junior scoring sensation, moments after front court leader Monika Czinano had picked up her fourth.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 2, 2023

Its front court, 450 ft. square, and surrounded by a cloister open on both sides, is paved with granite inlaid with marble, and commands a fine view of the city.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 7, Slice 10 "David, St" to "Demidov" by Various