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Become a Statistician

Statistics are everywhere and in every part of our lives and basketball is no different.  Statistics in basketball are used to evaluate a player’s or a teams performance, reading a box score can really offer you a detailed analysis of a game.

Stats for basketball dates back to the start of the NBL and WNBL in Australia with more advanced stats being captured from the ’90s. The role of the statistician is to record predetermined statistics for players and teams either electronically with a statistics program on a computer.

In Australia, statisticians are appointed to games, the ideal operation for the statistics bench is four people. One to “call” the game by commentating every event which requires statistical recording and the other to “record” the game by making the statistical entries and following the caller’s instructions. Like any good team, we also have contingency plans in place in the event of main statistics computer crashes, with another statistician recording plays on the “backup” computer, whilst the last crew member in the stats team is an “observer” who assists the “caller” if any statistics should be missed.

There are no perquisites required to become a statistician, however being a player, coach, referee or a scoretable official definitely advantageous in being able to assist you in understanding what happens during a game. Some people really enjoy the recording and analysis of data and it gives them a different insight into the game.  Other people may simply want to stay involved in the game after they have played, coached or officiated at a high level.  The reasons for becoming a statistician are many and varied and like refereeing and scoretable it can be an incredibly rewarding way to be a part of the basketball community!

Upcoming Statistician Courses

Statisticians Pathway

The first step is to pass a level 1 statistician course, consisting of both theory and practical assessments. Being a level 1 statistician enables you, once completed, you can start to participate as a statistician in games that are conducted at the “domestic” level and officiate in higher-level competitions like;

  • Waratah Leagues (managed by Basketball NSW)
  • NBL1 East (managed by Basketball NSW)
  • National Wheelchair Basketball Leagues, Australian Junior Championships and the Women’s National Basketball League (managed by Basketball Australia)
  • National Basketball League (managed by the NBL)

Level 1 Statician: This level is targeted at the basketball enthusiast who is keen to learn more about capturing statistics at senior level must be at least 16 years of age and be able to:

  • Understand basketball rules and statistical definitions,
  • Understand the sequencing of statistical events,
  • A basic understanding of the calling protocol,
  • Use the computer and the current software program
  • Read and understand a FIBA score sheet

Assessment:  Theory: Open book exam focussing on definitions, rules and recording of statistics & Practical: Ability to use the boxscore and correct calling protocol.

A Level 2 Statisictan: This level is for the statistician who has held level 1 accreditation and is capable of managing and leading a senior statistics bench. A level 2 statistician is eligible to manage and lead NBL and WNBL stats bench and must be at least 18 years of age. They must be able to:

  • Consistently and accurately apply the philosophy of the statistical definitions,
  • Accurately call, using the correct calling protocol,
  • Manage the statistics bench and maintain the code of conduct
  • Liaise with key personnel to effectively deliver game /league statistics

Assessment: Theory: Open book exam & Practical: Evaluation of ability to consistently apply correct philosophies and manage a stats bench.

The base requirement for selection to international games

A Level 3 Statisictan: A level 3 statistician must have held level 2 accreditation, have experience leading and mentoring beginner statisticians and met 4 mandatory criteria:

  • Have experience working with and assisting level 1 & 2 statisticians,
  • Evaluate, select and roster statisticians for developmental purposes,
  • Demonstrate capability to fulfil the role of Statistics Coordinator for National Junior Championships and/or Tournaments

For those statisticians who would like to be involved in FIBA competitions, you will need to become a FIBA licensed statistician. To hold this accreditation, you will need to:

  1. Be a registered member of your local basketball association.
  2. A minimum of 2-years experience as a statistician and officiating at the highest level of competition available.
  3. Have at least basic knowledge of the English language;
  4. Complete the FIBA eLearning courses and pass all relevant tests;
  5. Participate in a FIBA workshop and pass all relevant tests

Appointment: Demonstrate ability to develop statisticians, appointment by ABSC following a recommendation from State Co-ordinator.

Level 4 Statistician: A level 4 statistician must have held level 3 accreditation and supported by their state body ability to:

  • Hold a position in statistics at a National level – State Coordinator
  • Provide advice on statistics
  • Recruit, manage and co-ordinate personnel within a region or state,
  • Implement policy of the Australian Basketball Statisticians Committee

Appointment: Demonstrate ability to coordinate statistics across the state, appointment by ABSC.

For those statisticians who would like to be involved in FIBA competitions, you will need to become a FIBA licensed statistician, to hold this accreditation, you will need to:
  • Be a registered member of your local basketball association.
  • A minimum of 2-years experience as a statistician and officiating at the highest level of competition available.
  • Have at least basic knowledge of the English language;
  • Complete the FIBA eLearning courses and pass all relevant tests;
  • Participate in a FIBA workshop and pass all relevant tests
A FIBA Staticians license is valid for two years.

How do I become a statistician?

Please complete the online form below and one of our staff will be in contact with you to match you with the right course.

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