Sport-Specific Neuromuscular Adaptations in Basketball and Netball Athletes: A Comparative Analysis of Strength, Sprint Speed, and Change-of-Direction Performance

Abstract

In this study, the sport-specific neuromuscular adaptations of basketball and netball players were investigated for the following parameters: maximal strength, sprint speed, change of direction (COD) performance and explosive strength. The design of the study was cross-sectional comparative with 60 athletes (30 basketball players and 30 netball players). Maximal strength was determined with front squat and deadlift 1RM, isometric mid-thigh pull, handgrip strength and rate of force development. Sprint performance was tested on 5 m, 10 m and 20 m and COD ability was tested with the deceleration measures, 505 test and 5-10-5 test. The basketball athletes exhibited higher absolute strength, higher sprint performance and higher countermovement jump height. Basketball players had significantly greater front squat strength (p = .003); the 20 m sprint time (p = .004) and the CMJ height (p = .005) were also favored in basketball players. Netball athletes, on the other hand, showed better performance in deceleration and COD, with superior deceleration time (p = .004) and 505 test performance (p = .022). The MANOVA results confirmed that there was a significant sport effect in all the performance domains, with the largest effect in COD/deceleration performance (partial η² = .320). In general, the results suggest unique neuromuscular characteristics among basketball and netball players and the benefits of sport-specific strength and conditioning programmes.

Keywords: Neuromuscular Adaptations; Basketball; Netball; Sprint performance; Change-of-Direction Speed.