What does TS% mean in basketball?
In the world of basketball, advanced statistics play a crucial role in analyzing and understanding the game. Among these statistics, one metric stands out for its accuracy and relevance: True Shooting Percentage (TS%). So, what does TS% mean in basketball? And why is it such a vital tool for teams and players alike?
The Importance of TS%
True Shooting Percentage is an advanced metric that measures a player’s shooting efficiency from the field, three-point range, and the free throw line. Unlike Field Goal Percentage (FG%), which only accounts for made field goals, TS% takes into account free throw attempts and makes. This is because free throws can significantly impact a player’s overall shooting performance.
TS% is calculated by adding the player’s points from the field, free throws, and three-point shots, then dividing that sum by the total number of field goal attempts (2-point and 3-point) and free throw attempts. The resulting percentage indicates a player’s overall shooting effectiveness.
Why TS% is a Better Measure than FG%
Field Goal Percentage, while important, has its limitations. FG% only accounts for made field goals, neglecting the impact of free throw attempts and makes. By contrast, TS% includes both made and attempted field goals, providing a more comprehensive picture of a player’s shooting ability.
To illustrate this, consider the following example:
- A player makes 10-20 field goals and 5-5 free throws, for a total of 25 points. If we only look at their FG%, they’re at 50%. However, when we factor in the free throws, their TS% is actually around 60%. This indicates that the player is shooting at a higher level than their FG% suggests.
What is a Good TS% in Basketball?
The ideal TS% can vary depending on the league, position, and even the era. However, as a general guideline:
- Elite shooting (60% or higher): Players who consistently score at an elite level tend to have TS% numbers above 60%. Think Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, or Giannis Antetokounmpo.
- Adequate shooting (55-59%): Players who are above-average shooters typically fall within this range. Examples include role players like Danny Green, Patty Mills, or role-playing big men like Hassan Whiteside.
- Subpar shooting (below 55%): Players who struggle with efficiency often have TS% numbers below 55%. These players may need to adapt their game or improve their shooting mechanics.
Comparing TS% to Other Metrics
TS% can be compared to other shooting metrics, such as:
- Effective Field Goal Percentage (eFG%): eFG% accounts for the increased value of three-point shots and free throws. TS% includes both, but is more comprehensive.
- Free Throw Rate (FTR): FTR measures the frequency of free throw attempts relative to field goal attempts. TS% considers both, but with more emphasis on shooting accuracy.
Notable Examples
Here are some notable players and their TS% career averages:
- Stephen Curry: 62.7%
- Kobe Bryant: 54.3%
- Larry Bird: 53.2%
- Michael Jordan: 52.6%
- Joey Fulks: 37.4% ( lowest TS% in NBA history)
Conclusion
In conclusion, True Shooting Percentage is a vital metric for understanding a player’s shooting efficiency in basketball. By incorporating free throw attempts and makes, TS% provides a more comprehensive view of a player’s shooting abilities. Whether you’re an analyst, coach, or simply a fan, knowing the TS% of your favorite players can help you better appreciate their strengths and weaknesses.