a significant enough influence on the team where they handle the ball extremely often, to the point where the point guard may be reduced to a backup ball handler or . Notable shooting guards include Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Manu Ginobili, James Harden, Klay Thompson, Clyde Drexler, Jerry West, George Gervin, Vince Carter and Allen Iverson and Kyrie Irving. Skills and qualities It is important for a shooting guard to develop skills in defense, passing and strength in addition to shooting ability. This position displays the most movement offensively when trying to get an open shot, along with keeping things under control on the defensive end. Understanding that this position is shaped around the shooting ability of the athlete, many eternal abilities implemented into the player will overall help construct the potential the athlete possesses. External abilities would consist of strong ball handling, a sharp mind, and the development of a high basketball intelligence. Shooting guards are often used as the secondary ball handler to help eliminate pressure of the 1 guard. Notes References The Basketball Handbook (pg 14/15) (2004). Lee H. Rose External links Basketball positions Basketball terminology