Cutting-edge tech for basketball: Virtual reality and machine learning in executive function and decision-making training

Background and purpose High intensity training programs for improving technical skills, combined with an increase in the number of matches, impose significant physical strain on players. Virtual reality (VR) and machine learning (ML) technologies have opened up new opportunities to address these problems. However, in particular, there is a lack of research that combines virtual reality and machine learning methods in basketball. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of using virtual reality and machine learning technologies to improve sportsmanship and decision-making skills in basketball players. Material and methods The experiment involved 20 basketball players from Riau, Indonesia, who were divided into two groups: experimental (VR+ML) and control. Measurements were performed using the Stroop test to determine the level of mastery of a certain game function and an observation tool to determine decision-making skills. Results The results of the analysis of the obtained results showed that in the group that was engaged in the use of virtual reality and machine learning (VR+ML) there was a significant improvement in the level of mastery of certain game functions (EF - attention) and decision-making skills (DM) compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusions It was confirmed that the use of virtual reality technologies in combination with machine learning can effectively improve attention, concentration and decision-making ability in basketball athletes. This study offers new understanding of the potential of new technologies in supporting the cognitive development of athletes.