The Path to Expertise in Portuguese and Usa Basketball Players

The purpose of this study was to analyze the path to expertise of Portuguese and USA basketball players according to their specific playing position (i.e. guards, forwards and centers). The information needed to achieve this purpose was collected through a validated questionnaire applied to 75 Portuguese and 45 USA players in the Portuguese League. This questionnaire provided detailed information about the quantity and type of sporting activities performed throughout their careers. The results suggest some variability in the path followed by the players according to a playing position, except for the conformity displayed regarding early sport diversification (especially between six and ten years of age). The main findings emerging from this comparison suggest that while the Portuguese basketball players specialize in basketball earlier, the USA players seem to be guided to maintain a more comprehensive and diversified approach until 18 years of age.