2025, Vol. 12, Issue 4, Part B

Background: The primary objective of the study was to examine the key performance indicators that notably distinguish the top-four, mid-table, and bottom-four men's basketball teams according to their final rankings at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.
Methods: The study analyzed data from all eighteen group-stage matches of the men's basketball tournament at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Official score sheets from FIBA's website were gathered and examined. To compare the top-four, middle-four, and bottom-four teams, sixteen different variables were examined.
Results: The analysis revealed significant variations among the top-four, middle-four, and bottom-four teams regarding their successful 2-point shot percentage, free throw attempts, defensive rebounds, total rebounds, and turnovers (all p<0.05). Moreover, significant differences were also observed in 3-point attempts, successful free throw percentage, and bench points (all p<0.01). Following further post-hoc analysis, it was found that Qualifying teams showed better performance than Relegated teams in terms of successful 2-point shot percentage, free throw attempts, defensive rebounds, total rebounds, and turnovers (p<0.05). Additionally, qualifying teams also exhibited superior performance in 3-point attempts, successful free throw percentage, and bench points compared to Relegated teams (p<0.01). Furthermore, Mid-table teams demonstrated significantly higher free throw percentages compared to Relegated teams (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Teams reaching the Qualifying stage demonstrated comparable performance to those in the Mid-table, yet they showed superior performance in specific aspects compared to the Relegated teams. Therefore, it is recommended that coaches and trainers focus on these key performance indicators when analyzing matches and designing training programs to enhance overall team performance.