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.
The Huskies have struggled with their defense at the point of attack, allowing ball handlers to get in the lane and either draw fouls or score inside. Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 18 Mar. 2025 DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine and Malik Monk, the team’s primary ball handlers, combined for 11 turnovers and just eight assists. Chris Biderman, Sacramento Bee, 15 Mar. 2025 So today’s players are faster, better ball handlers, and better shooters. Susan M. Shaw, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 Opponents have typically trapped or switched when Doncic has operated as the ball handler in pick-and-rolls. Khobi Price, Orange County Register, 6 Mar. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Ball handler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ball%20handler. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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