The intra-match activity variation during elite and sub-elite open-age Australian male basketball competitions

Abstract

This study described the variation in activity demands experienced across match quarters in open-age Australian male basketball competition and compare these changes between elite and sub-elite playing levels. The results suggest that elite basketball players experience greater reductions in HIA towards the end of matches compared with sub-elite players. These differences may have been due to greater fatigue responses and tactical strategies reducing the pace of match activity towards the end of elite competition. In contrast, increased stoppage durations and more effective pacing strategies across sub-elite competition may have permitted improved maintenance of high-intensity activity across match quarters within these players