Feedback from basketball coaches: Type, quantity, and real-time outcomes

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between different types and frequencies of feedback given by basketball coaches and the outcome of possessions during the game. The verbal behavior of three basketball coaches was recorded during five full games, and these games were also video recorded. On average, the coaches gave 2.54 feedbacks per possession, with a total of 1931 feedbacks during 761 possessions in all five games. Feedback responses were classified into six sub-categories, including positive, negative, open, closed, focused, and general, and could belong to more than one category. Those that did not fit any category were marked as neutral. The relationship between the amount and types of feedbacks given and the results of the possessions was examined. Results show that of the six sub-categories, only positive and negative feedbacks were significantly related to possession outcomes. Moreover, the coaches tended to give large amounts of feedback and in varying frequencies, regardless of the possession outcomes. In conclusion, our results indicate that although not all types of feedback directly affect the performance during the game of basketball, positive feedback seems to be beneficial while negative feedback could even cause harm, even if to a relatively small extent. Basketball coaches should therefore make an effort to provide more positive feedback and less negative feedback.