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.

---

Etymology

Origin of front court

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

front court

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

After Burton’s free throws, North Carolina pushed it to the front court and called timeout with 0.6 seconds left before Sibande came up with a block of Caleb Love as time expired.

From Seattle Times ● Feb. 1, 2023

In late December, Avdija was moved to the bench full-time when Unseld began starting a front court of Kyle Kuzma, Porzingis and center Daniel Gafford.

From Washington Times ● Jan. 29, 2023

Michigan State: Izzo said senior forward Malik Hall will be out “a while,” with a foot injury that is potentially a major setback for a team that lacks front court depth.

From Seattle Times ● Jan. 16, 2023

Letty came rushing to her, declaring that Jumbo, dear Jumbo, and a gentleman were in the front court.

From Love and Life An Old Story in Eighteenth Century Costume by Charlotte Mary Yonge