Particle.news
Download on the App Store

NBA Begins Leaguewide Biomechanics Testing to Address Rising Injuries

Standardized motion-capture testing marks a data-first attempt to curb soft-tissue injuries.

Overview

  • Reporter Shams Charania says the league has started a biomechanics assessment program, with more than 500 players already tested and up to four assessments per player this season.
  • Identical motion-capture labs are slated for all 30 facilities following pilot installs at four teams, using systems from Qualisys, Theia Markerless, Bertec, and BreakAway Data.
  • Golden State’s Steve Kerr links faster pace and an every-other-night cadence to increased wear, noting no practice time on a weeklong trip and 17 games with five back-to-backs to start the season.
  • Data cited in reporting show pace at its highest since the late 1980s, record miles and speed tracked per game, and nine of the top-30 usage players currently sidelined, six with soft-tissue issues.
  • Warriors ruled Stephen Curry out with ankle soreness for Wednesday at Miami as media voices press solutions, with Michael Wilbon urging fewer games and Stephen A. Smith floating a minutes cap concept.