Analysis of visual fixations of novice vs. expert basketball players in triple threat situations based on defensive context

The objective of this research was to analyze the duration of visual fixations of novice and expert basketball players before executing a motor action in a triple-threat situation while facing four defensive formations: man-to-man defense, 2-3 zone, 1-2-2 zone, and 1-3-1 zone. The results showed that man-to-man defense required more fixation time for expert offensive players when facing the 2-3 zone. Additionally, expert players exhibited significantly shorter fixation times compared to novices when facing the 2-3 and 1-2-2 defenses. The complexity of defensive movements and the constant pressure in man-to-man defense could be a determining factor that caused longer fixation times in expert players compared to the 2-3 defense, which has predetermined defensive positioning zones that may facilitate reading the game. On the other hand, the shorter visual fixations in expert players compared to novices in the 2-3 and 1-2-2 defenses highlight the importance of experience in developing efficient visual search strategies in basketball.