Monitoring Countermovement Jump Performance for Division I Basketball Players over the Competitive Season

Abstract

The ability to monitor and maintain player readiness and fatigue is paramount to the success of a basketball team over the competitive season. Countermovement jumps (CMJ) are a popular method of quantifying neuromuscular performance and readiness of athletes. Since conference play at the end of the season is when players are needed to perform at their best, a CMJ can also be used to monitor lower body fatigue. Previous research is inconclusive regarding the impact of a competitive season on player fatigue and readiness. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the changes in neuromuscular readiness and lower body power over the duration of a competitive season in male collegiate basketball players. CMJ data of nine collegiate basketball players, who played in all the conference games and conference tournament games, were analyzed. All players were assessed at the beginning of and throughout the season. Players performed CMJs twice each week. A players’ best CMJ performance and the preceding jump (so two consecutive jumps) were averaged for this analysis. In addition to jump height, time to take-off, average relative propulsive power, and modified reactive strength index (mRSI) were measured. Players either maintained or improved their vertical jump height over the competitive playing season. There was a significant increase in jump height during the 18-week period of competitive play. There was no statistical change in time to takeoff, over the 18-week period. Although 7 players improved their average relative propulsive power over the competitive season, there was no significant difference statistically. No statistical change was seen for modified reactive strength index. The results of this study did not see a decline in neuromuscular readiness or lower body power over the duration of a competitive season in male collegiate basketball players. Previous studies have reported a decrease in strength and power at the conclusion of the competitive season. Based on results from this study, the ability of the players to produce force quickly was not negatively impacted by games, travel, strength training and practice stress. Monitoring CMJ performance is a valuable method for coaches trying to maintain player’s neuromuscular readiness and lower body power during a competitive Division I basketball season.