Abstract

Introduction: The body composition, anthropometrics and physical performance of basketball players are fundamental for their practice of the sport. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare body composition and physical performance among college and professional basketball players. Method: The sample consisted of 2 groups of male basketball players (n=17) (age: 23.61 ±3.45): Group 1 college players (rv=9; age: 22.48±3.79 years), and Group 2 professional players (n=8; age: 24.88±2.69 years). Weight, height, fat mass and muscle mass were measured. Physical performance was measured in throwing the ball (m/s), gripping strength (Kg), speed over 20 metres, jumping and reactive strength. The mean height of the college basketball players was 179.44±7.97 cm, weight 83.61 ±14.64 kg, body mass index (BMI) 25.94±3.95 kg/m2, % body fat mass 16.64±7.07, % Muscle mass 47.59±4.01; the mean height of the professional players was 18150±8.42 cm. weight 89.73±25.56 kg, BMI 26.94±5.87 kg/mJ, % body fat mass 19.26±8.20, % Muscle mass 46.26±455. Results: There were no significant differences in the % of body fat and muscle mass, similar results to those found in handgrip strength, ball-Throwing speed and speed in 20 meters with and without the ball (p >0.05). For physical performance only the Q index and the floor contact time (DM) in drop jumps presented statistical differences (p <0.05), with better results achieved by the college players. Conclusion: College and professional basketball players do not show significant differences in body composition and variables associated with physical performance, especially the vertical jump capacity that is lower in both groups compared to what is reported in the scientific literature.