How is Plus-Minus measured? What is SWISH used for? What does the Efficiency Rating measure?
In today’s basketball, advanced stats are the secret weapon for reaching the highest level of player and team performance. Statistics like Plus-Minus (+/-) and Player Efficiency Rating are key to analyzing every aspect of the game, going far beyond traditional points, rebounds, or assists. With Swish, coaches, players, and even fans can now review and understand these stats in real-time, allowing them to make game-changing decisions. Here, we explain these concepts and how Swish transforms analysis and strategy.
What is Plus-Minus?
Plus-Minus (+/-) measures a player’s impact on the score while on the court. This metric gets to the heart of a player’s contribution, showing not just how they play but how they make their team better as a whole. How is it calculated? Simple: we sum up the difference in points scored and points allowed while that player is in the game. So, if the team scores 20 points and allows 15 with that player on the court, the Plus-Minus is +5.
Why does it matter? Because Plus-Minus reveals a player’s true value, their ability to “make the team better.” Even if they don’t always shine individually, a positive Plus-Minus indicates that their presence makes a difference in collective performance.
Practical Example
Imagine a player who doesn’t always stand out for scoring but consistently maintains a high Plus-Minus. They might be a defensive pillar or a silent leader. Thanks to this statistic, the coach knows when to keep them in during crucial moments of the game.
Player Efficiency Rating in Basketball
The Efficiency Rating is another advanced stat that sums up a player’s performance into a single number, based on individual stats reflecting productivity: points, rebounds, assists, steals, and turnovers. By adding up the positives and subtracting the negatives, we get a measure of the player’s overall efficiency.
What does it measure?
The Efficiency Rating shows how efficient and productive a player is. Those with a high rating tend to contribute across many areas of the game, optimizing each play and maximizing their impact on the court.
Practical Example
A player might score 20 points, but if they turn the ball over frequently or miss a lot, their rating will drop, reflecting lower efficiency. This metric helps coaches identify players who, beyond just scoring, optimize every action on the court.
Swish: The App that Makes Advanced Stat Analysis Easy
Swish is the ideal tool for teams aiming to win. Here are some key points on how it can make a difference:
Real-Time Analysis: Coaches and players can access stats during the game, enabling on-the-fly strategy adjustments based on data like each player’s Plus-Minus or Efficiency Rating.
Data Visualization: Swish makes everything clear, from shot patterns and heat maps to customized advanced stats.
Player Comparison and Optimization: The app allows coaches to compare players and see which combinations on the court maximize the Plus-Minus. It’s perfect for optimized rotations and getting the most out of each game minute.
Practical Example
Imagine a tight game where the coach needs to quickly determine the best player combination. With Swish, they can view Plus-Minus in real-time and see who’s having the greatest impact on the score. If they detect a strong defensive group, they can adjust the lineup to intensify defense at critical moments.