Technical profile of Brazilian basketball players: relationship between game indicators and specific positions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to establish the technical profile of Brazilian basketball players analysing the game indicators and specific positions. Data were obtained through official game statistics of both Brazilian and State of Sao Paulo championships in 2001, 2002 and 2003 (1460 games). The subjects selected for the study were 20 guards, 43 forwards and 49 centres who took part, at least, in 50% of the games and 50% of game time. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation), ANOVA and Z Index to test possible statistical differences among the specific positions. It was found statistical differences in all game indicators (p < 0.05), among the specific positions, except for the free-throws attempt. The best game indicators per specific positions were: Guards: minutes per games, three points %, free-throws made, free-throws %, assists, steals and fouls; Forwards: three points attempt, three points made, two points made, free-throws attempt, points attempt and points made; Centres: two points attempt, two points %, rebounds, blocked shots, turnovers and field goals %. These results attest some empirical concepts about basketball players. roles in the game. The forwards were those with the highest number of field goals attempts, but centres had the best field goal %. One of the explanations for this high % is the proximity of the centres to basket.