Free-Throw Shooting During Dual-Task Performance

Abstract

In this study, the dual-task paradigm was used to determine peak attentional demand during the free-throw process. Thirty participants completed 40 free-throw trials. The free throw was the primary task, but participants also verbally responded to a tone administered at one of four probe positions (PP). Repeated measures analysis of variance showed no significant difference in free-throw performance across PPs, indicating participants were able to keep the free throw as the primary task. Repeated measures analysis of response time (RT) showed significant differences, with RT at PP1 (preshot routine) and PP2 (first upward motion of the ball) significantly higher than baseline RT. These results suggest that PP1 requires the greatest attentional demand, followed by PP2.

Key words:

• Basketball
• Capacity theory
• Dual-task paradigm
• Reaction time

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jayme Price

This paper is based on thesis research completed for the first author's M.S. degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Please address all correspondence concerning this article to Jayme Price, Academic Coordinator for Athletics, Elon University, 2500 Campus Box, Elon, NC 27244.