"Athlete External Load Measures Across a Competitive Season in High School Basketball" [Article Review]

This study provides a valuable contribution to the field of sport science by quantifying external load measures across a competitive high school basketball season, a population that has been underrepresented in the existing literature. The authors address a critical gap by examining how external load metrics—such as Player Load, jumps, and explosive movements—relate to basketball performance and how these demands differ between starters and nonstarters, as well as across game types and quarters. The findings are particularly important for coaches and sport scientists working with adolescent athletes, as they offer normative data and practical insights for load management, injury prevention, and performance optimization at the high school level.​

Key Takeaways

The study found that starters experienced significantly higher external loads during games compared to nonstarters, with higher Player Load, total jumps, and explosive movements. Across the season, the average Player Load was 457 arbitrary units (AU), and the highest external loads were observed in the first and third quarters of games. Relationships were identified between external load and performance: higher Player Load and total jumps were associated with more points scored and better free throw percentages. Notably, district games resulted in higher Player Load per minute than tournament games, suggesting differences in game intensity. The study also revealed that external load fluctuated throughout the season, with peaks corresponding to periods of high game frequency.​

Practical Application

These findings have direct implications for sport performance and sport science. Coaches can use external load monitoring to individualize training and recovery strategies, especially for starters who accumulate higher loads and may be at greater risk of overtraining or injury. The data can help practitioners set benchmarks for load management and adjust practice intensity to match the demands of competition. Additionally, understanding how load varies by game type and quarter can inform tactical planning and conditioning, ensuring athletes are prepared for the physical and mental challenges of high school basketball. The study also highlights the importance of monitoring both starters and nonstarters, as nonstarters may not receive sufficient stimulus to maintain performance adaptations, particularly during periods of high competition frequency.

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