The initial possession in a basketball game is often determined by a jump ball. This involves an official tossing the ball upward between two opposing players, each attempting to tap it to a teammate. Quantifiable information related to these opening possessions, and subsequent jump ball situations during a game, provide insight into team strategies and player effectiveness.
Analyzing the percentage of successful tips, the resulting possession outcomes, and the downstream impact on scoring and overall game control can reveal advantages and disadvantages for specific players and teams. Examining this type of data across seasons offers a historical perspective on evolving tactics and personnel choices related to securing initial and critical possessions.