Did the three point line change influence the female youth basketball? Analysis of the predictive factors from winning teams (U-16 and U-20)

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to analyze the behavior of winning teams in youth basketball, considering in particular the increasing distance from the three point line, among other changes introduced by FIBA (International Amateur Basketball Federation). More precisely identify which and how the game-related statistics indicators present in the equation of "4 Factors - ROBOSCOUT" discriminate the winning teams, considered in function of category/season. Data referred to 485 matches of the European Championships in 2010 and 2011 (S16-2010, n = 140, S20-2010, n = 104, S16-2011, n = 131, S20-2011, n = 110) was analyzed, focusing on the following variables: final score, offensive rebounds, opponent defensive rebounds, turnovers, field goal attempt; 2 and 3-point field-goals and free-through (attempted, failed and made). Although at first view, the main differences appear to be related to the age factor, namely the effectiveness of the field-goals and turnovers per possession, the results obtained using analysis of variance (MANOVA) shows that since 2010 to 2011 seasons the game becomes more homogeneous between S16 and S20 categories, disappearing values statistically significant as the 3-points made and 2-points attempted. Curiously, in U20 category the values given in the 3-point field-goals, considering the significant difference for the attempted and the observed virtually identical percentages, it suggested a better selection of shot in 2011 compared to 2010 season. Despite the consciousness that an understanding of performance in youth basketball need a multivariate perspective, it is expected that these results may help in future research and female basketball coaches in the development of training programs and planning competitions.