Analysis of Speed, Agility, Age, and Dribble Lay-Up Performance of Basketball Players Aged 10–14 Years: A Comparative and Correlational Study

Abstract

Background: The dribble lay-up technique is a fundamental skill in basketball that requires the integration of speed, agility, and coordination, yet limited research has examined how these physical attributes relate to performance in young players aged 10-14 years during their critical developmental stage. Understanding these relationships is essential for designing age-appropriate training programs that optimize skill development in youth basketball. Objectives: This study aims to analyze the relationship between speed, agility, and age with dribble lay-up performance among basketball players aged 10-14 years, and to compare performance differences across varying physical characteristics. Methods: A quantitative correlational approach with cross-sectional design was employed involving 20 basketball players aged 10-14 years. Speed was measured through sprint tests, agility through zig-zag directional change tests, age was recorded from official team data, and dribble lay-up performance was assessed through technical skill evaluations. Due to non-normal data distribution, Spearman correlation analysis was used to examine relationships between variables. Results: Results revealed moderate negative correlation between speed and dribble lay-up performance (r = -0.338, p = 0.145), weak negative correlation with agility (r = -0.309, p = 0.185), and slight positive correlation with age (r = 0.262, p = 0.279), though none reached statistical significance. Comparative analysis showed 13-year-old players demonstrated better speed and agility than 12-year-old players, but no significant difference in dribble lay-up performance. Conclusion: Physical attributes alone are insufficient to explain variations in dribble lay-up ability at this developmental stage, suggesting that technical mastery, practice frequency, coaching guidance, and playing experience play more critical roles.