Effective Field Goal Percentage: Measuring Shooting Efficiency

Effective field goal percentage (EFF) is a basketball statistic that measures the efficiency of a player’s shooting. It is calculated by dividing the number of field goals made by a player by the number of field goal attempts taken. EFF is often used to compare the shooting efficiency of different players, as well as to evaluate a player’s overall performance on the court. It is closely related to other basketball statistics such as field goal percentage (FG%), true shooting percentage (TS%), and free throw percentage (FT%).

What is an Effective Field Goal in Basketball?

An effective field goal (EFF) is a statistic that measures the efficiency of a player’s shooting, taking into account the value of three-point shots.

Formula

EFF = (FG + (0.5 x 3P)) / FGA

  • FG = field goals made
  • 3P = three-point field goals made
  • FGA = field goal attempts

Interpretation

EFF expresses the total number of points a player would have scored if all of their field goals had been worth two points. It provides a more accurate measure of shooting efficiency than field goal percentage (FG%) alone.

Factors that Affect EFF

  • Shot selection: Players who take more three-pointers will generally have a higher EFF than those who primarily shoot two-pointers.
  • Three-point shooting ability: Players who shoot a high percentage from three will have a higher EFF.
  • Free throw shooting ability: Free throws count towards EFF, so players who shoot a high percentage at the line will have an advantage.
  • Offensive rebounding: Players who rebound their own missed shots and score second-chance points will increase their EFF.

Top 10 Players by Effective Field Goal Percentage (2022-23 Season)

Player EFF%
Stephen Curry 64.9%
Kevin Durant 62.5%
Mike Conley 61.2%
Luka Dončić 60.7%
Nikola Vučević 60.1%
Khris Middleton 59.8%
Giannis Antetokounmpo 59.7%
Jayson Tatum 59.5%
Anthony Davis 59.3%
Bam Adebayo 58.8%

How to Improve Your EFF

  • Take high-percentage shots: Focus on shooting close to the basket and in the paint.
  • Develop your three-point shot: Practice regularly and work on your form.
  • Improve your free throw shooting: Consistent free throw shooting is crucial for boosting EFF.
  • Crash the offensive glass: Get in position to rebound your own shots and score second-chance points.

Question 1:

What does the term “EFF” stand for in the context of basketball?

Answer:

The term “EFF” in basketball stands for “Effective Field Goal Percentage.”

Question 2:

How is the EFF statistic calculated in basketball?

Answer:

EFF is calculated by dividing the total number of field goals made, plus half the number of three-pointers made, by the total number of field goal attempts.

Question 3:

What is the significance of EFF in basketball?

Answer:

EFF is a metric that measures a player’s efficiency in scoring by taking into account the value of three-point shots and the frequency of field goal attempts.

That’s pretty much all you need to know about EFF in basketball. It’s a stat that can help you understand how efficient a player is on the court. Next time you’re watching a game, keep an eye on the EFF stat to see who’s really making an impact. Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back later for more basketball tips and insights!

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