Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-24-2018
Publication Title
American Journal of Human Biology
Volume
30
Abstract
Objectives
The primary aim of this study was to examine relationships between digit ratio (2D:4D) and game‐related statistics in professional and semi‐professional male basketball players. The secondary aim was to quantify differences in mean 2D:4Ds between starting and reserve players.
Methods
Using a cross‐sectional design, 93 male basketball players from the professional Australian National Basketball League and the semi‐professional South Australian Premier League were measured in‐season for height, mass, and 2D:4D, with game‐related statistics collected end‐season. Linear relationships between right and left 2D:4Ds and game‐related statistics were quantified using nonparametric partial correlations, and differences in mean 2D:4Ds between starting and reserve players were quantified using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). All partial correlations and ANCOVAs were adjusted for playing experience, body size, and competitive standard.
Results
2D:4D was a weak to moderate negative correlate of points scored and assists‐to‐turnovers ratio, indicating that males with lower 2D:4Ds were generally better offensively as they recorded more points and assists relative to turnovers. The difference in mean 2D:4D between starting and reserve players was negligible.
Conclusions
2D:4D was favorably correlated with open‐skill sports performance, as evidenced by the better offensive statistics of male basketball players with lower 2D:4Ds. These results probably reflect the organizational benefits of prenatal testosterone and indicate that 2D:4D may be a useful complement to traditional physical, physiological, skill, and behavioral predictors of basketball success.
Issue
6
DOI
10.1002/ajhb.23182
ISSN
1042-0533
Rights
This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: "Relationships between the digit ratio (2D:4D) and game-related statistics in professional and semi-professional male basketball players", which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1002/ajhb.23182. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions.
Recommended Citation
Katelyn L. Klapprodt, John S. Fitzgerald, Sandra E. Short, et al.. "Relationships between the digit ratio (2D:4D) and game‐related statistics in professional and semi‐professional male basketball players" (2018). Education, Health & Behavior Studies Faculty Publications. 6.
https://commons.und.edu/ehb-fac/6