ABSTRACT
It is recognised that flexibility and strength are important components of fitness for basketball performance. Assessment techniques of these variables are discussed in detail in Chapters 10 and 13.
Speed is a key asset of the basketball player. In fast breaks, the player who is quickest down the court will be in the most commanding tactical position, whether attacking or defending. Also acceleration is of vital importance to the basketball player as it is often the first few steps that determine whether a player can get past their defender. Times in the sprint test are recorded over the first 5 m and 20 m.
