By Paige Stanard
In March 2015, the ninth annual MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, the biggest meeting of sports-data experts, was held and more than 3,100 people attended the event. Here are some key takeaways from the event.
In March 2015, the ninth annual MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference, the biggest meeting of sports-data experts, was held and more than 3,100 people attended the event. Here are some key takeaways from the event.
1.
Sports analytics has made a big impact –
sometimes
In 2006, Houston Rockets general manager
Daryl Morey traded for Shane Battier, a forward averaging only ten points a
game. However, data and metrics showed
that Battier was an outstanding player due to his defensive skills and shot
selection. Studies on Battier introduced several analytics concepts to the
public, such as the fact that the corner three-pointer is statistically the
most efficient shot.
2.
Most teams aren’t that analytical
Overall, it is incredibly difficult to get
teams to accept data-driven ideas. NFL
teams are notoriously conservative on fourth-down plays and football
play-calling in general is far too predictable. On the other end of the
spectrum, some basketball analytics show that there is still value in old
school values and not using analytics. Some teams choose to skip the analytics
and focus on the basics like good shots, rebounding and defense.
3.
Analysts need to explain themselves
In order to be useful, advanced data and
analytics require clear explanations for those whom aren’t super familiar with
it. For example, coaches, managers and players need clear explanations of what
they mean and how they can use it. If analytics shows that a baseball team
should alter its defensive positioning or that long two-point shots in
basketball are bad, this has to be explained in everyday language.
4.
You too can be in this business
How can you get into the sports
analytics business?
“Find ways to make it actionable,”
said Tyler Dellow, a former hockey blogger who is now a consultant for the NHL’s
Edmonton Oilers. “Find ways to help coaches.” It’s all about finding the data
and turning it into actionable insights for coaches, players and managers to
use.
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