Basketball Statistics Blog

Friday Press Clippings:
Advanced Statistics: Game Changer?

From stacheketball
By Patrick Lo
Download source here: ' Advanced Statistics: Game Changer? ' by Patrick Lo

"... What is the point of statistics, or for that matter, numbers? I think we can agree that numbers represent the relative value, or worth, of the subject in question.

In effect, the more numbers, or statistics, that we have to measure value, the closer the perceived value gets to the actual value. Here the perceived value is the value based on all the information available as a whole whereas the actual value is the intrinsic, arguably unquantifiable, value. ..."

"... In basketball terms, numbers (for example points), represent how good a team is relative to its opponent. The objective is to have more points than your opponents at the end of 48 minutes which then translates to a win.

Wins, in turn, measure the relative worth in relation to all the other teams in the league. Essentially, numbers in basketball are a simplified reference point to determine relative worth. ..."

"... Much of the analysis surrounding AS focuses on how owners and coaches use, or will use, them to make critical decisions regarding lineups, matchups and potential trades.

AS have even permeated so far as to influence game-time decisions through their employed stat heads at hand on the bench.

This convenience has proven invaluable to GMs like Cuban and Morey who consider their stat heads part of the coaching staff. ... "

"... We all have this unfortunate, but undeniable side that both yearns for and thrives off instant gratification. For this exact reason I envision AS drastically affecting the way players not only play, but train for, the game. ..."

"... All the highlight reels in the world will never replace the glory of winning an NBA championship and AS will become, if it hasn’t already, a key cog in the world of basketball. Credit is given where credit is due and we can see that no more easily than in the numbers. It’s all right there; we just need to start paying attention. ..."

Read more articles in stacheketball.

To read today's 'Press Clippings' in Spanish, click this week above on the 'Español' tab or afterwards click here: ' Estadisticas Avanzadas ¿Por Que No? ' by Iron Fist.

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