The Midrange Theory: Basketball's Evolution in the Age of Analytics

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From a leading expert in basketball analytics comes a fresh perspective on how to engage with the game. At its essence, a basketball team's objective is straightforward: take and make good shots while hindering the opponent's ability to do the same. However, defining a "good" shot and identifying players' likelihood to make or prevent those shots is more complex. The term "basketball analytics" has sparked debate, being praised, criticized, and often misunderstood. The integration of data into NBA decision-making has been linked to significant changes in the game, from the decline of traditional centers to the rise of three-point shooting and the perceived neglect of midrange shots. Understanding these analytics is crucial for appreciating the modern NBA. The author, an NBA analyst and former Director of Basketball Research for the Milwaukee Bucks, delves into how statistics have influenced the game today. He emphasizes that rather than attempting to "solve" basketball, analytics encourage a rethinking of the sport. Covering topics from shot selection to prospect evaluation and the ethics of box score analysis, the author skillfully examines the current state of the NBA, its evolution, and potential future directions.