Breaking Down the Game
At Slam Basketball, we evaluate five basketball attributes on a consistent 10-point scale, with one (1) representing a beginner level and ten (10) indicating elite proficiency. This scale provides a standardized way to assess and compare players’ abilities, offering clear benchmarks for improvement.
Ball Handling
Control, change of pace and direction, speed, hand-eye coordination, and ball protection.
Shooting/Finishing
Balance, alignment, follow-through and focus.
Passing
Accuracy, timing, vision, ball speed, and catching.
Defense
Effort, communication, on-ball, off-ball, help-side, and closing out.
Athleticism
Positioning, timing, strength/physicality, aggressiveness, and hustle.
10-POINT evaluation SCALE
(1-2) BEGINNER
A beginner struggles with basic dribbling, passing, and shooting, has limited understanding of game rules and positioning, and lacks coordination and confidence with the ball.
(3-4) DEVELOPING
A developing player can dribble and pass with some control, but struggles under pressure, has inconsistent shooting form, and is still learning defensive positioning and footwork.
(5-6) PROFICIENT
A proficient player can dribble, pass, and shoot effectively in controlled settings. Demonstrates reliable mid-range scoring, and has a solid understanding of team defense.
(7-8) ADVANCED
An advanced player handles the ball confidently under pressure, scores efficiently from all areas of the court, and plays smart, disciplined defense while contributing effectively to team strategy.
(9-10) ELITE
An elite player dominates the game with exceptional ball-handling, shooting, and decision-making, consistently scores in any situation, and demonstrates high basketball IQ, leadership, and defensive excellence.