Date of Award

January 2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Kinesiology & Public Health Education

First Advisor

Grant R. Tomkinson

Abstract

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 male players based on their position in the starting lineup.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 partial correlations adjusted for playing experience, height, mass and competitive standard. Differences in mean 2D:4Ds between starting and reserve players were quantified using unpaired t-tests.2D:4D was a weak to moderate negative correlate of points scored, offensive and defensive rebounds, and assists-to-turnovers ratio, indicating that males with lower 2D:4Ds were generally better offensively as they recorded more points, rebounds, and assists relative to turnovers. The difference in mean 2D:4D between starting and reserve players was negligible.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.

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