An exploration into pre-game speeches and their influence on psychological and performance outcomes in basketball

This thesis details a narrative review and five empirical studies with the overall aim to examine the use, content, and effects of pre-game speeches in basketball. Chapter 1 found that pre-game speech research, although emerging, is limited despite its common use throughout team sports. Chapter 2 used a cross-sectional survey design and found that pre-game speeches are common within basketball, and that the majority of basketball players find them enjoyable, useful, and influential on their individual and team confidence and performance. Chapters 3 and 4 applied a qualitative approach with professional basketball players and coaches respectively. Players perceived pre-game speeches as a valuable part of their pre-game routine, that individual and team needs could be met during pre-game speeches, and that players engage in various behaviours to compensate if those needs are not met. Coaches’ delivery of pre-game speeches depended on context and purpose, and after games they engaged in a reflective process that influences subsequent speeches. Both coaches and athletes perceived that pre-game speeches effect cognitive, affective, and behavioural variables and ultimately performance. Chapter 5 used a novel concept mapping approach and found six types of pre-game speech content: strategic information, collective team support, emotional appeal, concentration/focus, negative/critical, and pre-game speech preparation. Coaches and athletes rated strategic information as most effective for enhancing collective efficacy and performance. Chapter 6 used a mixed-methods approach throughout a season with a professional basketball team. Although the effect of pregame speeches on performance was not statistically significant, the effect size was large. Participants perceived that pre-game speeches influence performance via four main psychological factors: efficacy, focus, energy, and support. Evidence provided in this thesis demonstrates the use and perceived importance of pre-game speeches within basketball, underlying mechanisms, and the potential effect on psychological and performance outcomes.