The ‘hot hand’ is a real basketball phenomenon 

The Hot Hand in Basketball: A Real Phenomenon Analyzed The concept of the hot hand in basketball has been a topic of debate among fans, players, and statisticians for years. The idea is simple: when a player makes several shots in a row, they are said to have a "hot hand," implying that they are more likely to continue making subsequent shots. While some dismissed it as a mere illusion, recent studies and analyses suggest that the hot hand might indeed be a real phenomenon. Historically, skeptics argued that believing in the hot hand was an example of cognitive bias, where people see patterns in random sequences. They pointed to statistical analyses showing that a player's probability of making a shot does not significantly increase after making several consecutive shots. However, more recent research has challenged this view by employing advanced statistical models and a deeper understanding of in-game dynamics. One reason the hot hand may be real is due to a player's increased confidence after making consecutive shots. Confidence can influence a player's decision-making and execution, potentially leading to better performance. Additionally, when a player is perceived to be "hot," they may receive more opportunities to shoot, thereby increasing their chances to score. Moreover, defensive adjustments by the opposing team can inadvertently create more favorable conditions for the player with the hot hand. For instance, if defenders focus too much on the hot player, it might open up opportunities for teammates, subsequently making it easier for the hot player to score when they do get the ball. In conclusion, while the hot hand in basketball was once thought to be a myth, ongoing research and analysis suggest that it could be a genuine phenomenon influenced by psychological and tactical factors. This understanding not only enriches the fan experience but also provides valuable insights for coaches and players seeking to maximize performance on the court.