Statistics

What is a Basketball Statistician?

A Basketball Statistician is a game official who is responsible for recording all actions for both teams during a game. At least two statisticians officiate at each game – one (the caller) calls all the action on court to the second statistician (the computer operator), who inputs these actions into a computer. A third statistician (the spotter) may also be present, their role is to clarify or pick up missed actions by the caller.

Why become a statistician?

It’s a great way to be involved in basketball outside of coaching, playing and refereeing.
Learn and appreciate more about the game of basketball.
Meet people with similar interests.
It’s not a time-consuming position as there are no duties to perform outside of the actual game.
You do not need to provide any equipment.
There is the opportunity to progress to the international level of competition.

Do statisticians get paid?

Statisticians traditionally officiate on a volunteer basis, however in some cases a nominal fee is paid for NBL / NBL1 level games.

What competitions do statisticians officiate at?

Statisticians officiate at most senior competitions around Australia. Depending on their level of accreditation, Victorian statisticians have the opportunity to officiate at the:

National Basketball League (NBL)
Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL)
National Wheelchair Basketball League (NWBL)
National Basketball League 1 North (NBL1 North)
Queensland State League (QSL)

As well, statisticians are often required at various tournaments across Australia, such as pre-season NBL and WNBL tournaments, Australian Junior Championships and State Club Championships.

How do I become a statistician?

To become a statistician, you must be 14 years or older and have a basic knowledge of basketball. Some experience with computers is also an advantage.

Prospective statisticians complete a Statistician’s Course (approx 3 hours) incorporating “Level 1 Statistician” accreditation and learning to use the Basketball Statistics Computer Program.

After you have achieved your Level 1 and Computer Course accreditation, and practiced officiating at a few games, you are ready to begin your new position as a Basketball Statistician. Your accreditation is recognised across Australia.

To find out more please get in touch via info@sdbal.com.au.