The contribution of linear sprinting and lateral shuffling to change of direction T-Test performance in semi-professional, male basketball players

This study aims to examine the influence of linear sprint and lateral shuffle speed and acceleration on change of direction (COD) T-test performance in basketball players. Semi-professional, male basketball players (N = 9; 20.4 ± 4.5 years; 187.4 ± 7.6 cm; 86.2 ± 12.1 kg) completed 3 x 20-m linear sprinting trials, 2 x 20-m lateral shuffling trials in each direction, and 2 x COD T-test trials. Sprinting and shuffling outcome measures included 0-5, 0-10, and 5-10 m speed and acceleration, while total time during the COD T-test was taken as a further outcome measure. Correlational and regression analyses were utilised to determine the influence of each sprinting and shuffling measure on COD T-test performance. All linear speed measures were significantly (P < 0.006) related to COD T-test performance (R = -0.92 to -0.83). Only 5-10 m, right lateral shuffle speed was significantly (P = 0.019) related to COD T-test performance (R = -0.75, very large). These findings demonstrate a stronger influence of sprint speed on COD T-test performance than previously reported in basketball players, and provide novel insight regarding lateral shuffling ability. The weaker relationships observed for lateral measures on COD T-test performance are likely due to the mismatched directional demands, complexity, and non-game-specific distances embedded in the shuffling requirements of the test. As such, practical limitations of the COD T-test are highlighted in the present study, including an overt influence of linear speed and disproportionate influence on shuffling ability in the right direction on test performance. Basketball strength and conditioning staff and sport scientists should recognise that COD T-test performance may be strongly reflective of sprinting and right shuffling abilities when choosing player assessment approaches.