A statistician does not have to have played basketball and training will explain the various statistics that are kept. The effective recording of statistics usually requires at least two people. One to “call” the game by commentating every event which requires statistical recording and the other to “record” the game by making the statistical entries and following the caller’s instructions.

When statistics are collected using a computer it means that fans can follow the game even if they are not able to attend.

Why become a statistician?

Some people really enjoy the recording and analysis of data and it gives them a different insight into the game. Other people may simply want to stay involved in the game after they have played, coached or officiated at a high level.

The reasons for becoming a statistician are many and varied and like refereeing and scoretable it can be an incredibly rewarding way to be a part of the basketball community!

Roles of the Statistician

• Caller: Clearly and verbally identifies every on‑court action for the operator, ensuring precise and consistent data capture.
• Inputter/Operator: Accurately enters all called actions into the digital statistics system, managing the official live digital scorebook.
• Spotter: Supports the caller and operator by monitoring additional details—such as player numbers, substitutions and off‑ball actions—to ensure nothing is missed.

Common statistics are:

• the number of shots taken and from where they were taken
• rebounds (when a player catches the ball after a missed shot)
• assists (when a player passes the ball to a teammate who scores)
• steals (when a player gains possession from an opponent)
• turnovers (when a player loses possession of the ball)

Statistics is a matter of watching games and getting to understand what an “assist” or a “turnover” etc. Often, two statistics will be recorded from the one event. For example, a turnover by an offensive player may also be a steal for the defensive player.