Comparison of Physical and Performance Characteristics of NCAA Division I Basketball and Football Players

In two previous studies, NCAA Division I institutions responded to a survey about the physical and performance traits of either their basketball (n = 45) or football teams (n = 40). Data were gathered on height, weight, % body fat, vertical jump, 40-yd dash, and bench press and squat strength. From these data, power, fat-free weight, and strength relative to body weight were calculated. This investigation compared basketball and football players as a whole, and then by selected position groups. Football players overall weighed more, had a higher % body fat, and were more powerful than basketball players. The latter were taller and their speed was equivalent to that of football players. Comparison of basketball guards to football backs and wide receivers revealed significant differences in all variables except body fat. Comparison of basketball centers with football linemen revealed significant differences in all variables except vertical jump and 40-yd dash.