impact of mental games on improving shooting accuracy among young basketball players in Iraqi clubs

This study investigates the effectiveness of mental games in enhancing shooting accuracy among young basketball players. Initially, baseline shooting accuracy was assessed through tests conducted prior to a three-week intervention involving mental games. A follow-up test revealed a significant improvement in participants' shooting accuracy following the intervention. Given the noticeable differences in the new shooting scores compared to the initial assessments, a second set of pre-intervention tests was conducted. These tests reaffirmed the significant enhancement in shooting accuracy, substantiating the hypothesis that mental games positively affect performance. The findings highlight the importance of these intervention programs for young athletes aiming to improve their shooting abilities. Supporting literature reinforces the study's conclusions, demonstrating that mental exercises, particularly techniques focused on thought control, can effectively amplify basketball performance. Specifically, guard makeover games implemented during the intervention sessions emerged as a particularly effective strategy for boosting shooting accuracy. Ultimately, this research underscores the value of mental training interventions in enhancing the performance levels of young basketball players, equipping them with the tools necessary to manage distractions and elevate their gameplay.