Game-related statistics that discriminate basketball players, across playing positions, in the finals of the European Championships (1988-2006). Differences between starters and nonstarters

The aim of this study was to analyze the differences in game-related statistics between basketball player's specific positions for starters and non-starters. Archival data report to individual game-related statistics from the final games of the three European competitions for clubs from 1987-88 to 2005-06 season. The players were divided in two starters and non-starters and the analysis of the discriminant function was based on the observation of the structure coefficients (SC). Guards, forwards and centre starters' were discriminated by offensive rebounds (SC= -0,57), blocks (SC=-0,52), successful (SC=0,51) and unsuccessful 3-point field-goals (SC=0,37). These results may suggest that the guards were the most influent players in team structure during theses games. In nonstarters, the emphasis was on blocks (SC=0,36), defensive rebounds (SC=0,31) and successful 2-point field-goals (SC=0,31). The results suggest the centres as the most important non-starter players to the team structure. Coaches can use these results in teams' recruitment and team preparation and direction to the games.