Effects of playing experience on joint kinetics and ball-release velocity in mid- and long-range basketball jump shots
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigated how playing experience influences joint kinetics and ball-release velocity during mid- and long-range jump shots. Wrist, elbow, shoulder, and knee rate of torque development (RTD), peak power (Ppeak), and angular impulse (AI) were quantified, along with vertical release velocity (VV) and horizontal release velocity (HV) at release. Methods: In a cross-sectional design, 30 players executed three successful jump shots from 4.8 m and 6.75 m. A 3-D motion-capture system synchronised with force plates provided the data used to compute RTD, Ppeak, AI, VV, and HV. Outcomes were compared with a two-way mixed ANOVA. Results: Experienced athletes exhibited greater wrist AI (p < 0.001), elbow RTD (p = 0.002), Ppeak (p = 0.045), and AI (p < 0.001), knee Ppeak (p = 0.002), and VV (p < 0.001). Longer shooting distance increased shoulder peak (p = 0.036) and HV (p = 0.018). Conclusions: Collectively, these results show that experience enhances joint kinetic output, providing the mechanical foundation for more efficient and dependable shooting. For novice players, emphasising wrist-endurance work, explosive-power training for the elbow and knee, and targeted drills to raise VV is recommended to improve overall on-court shooting performance.