Player role-specific workload profiles and the internal-external load relationship in semi-professional basketball

Understanding how internal and external loads interact is critical for optimising basketball performance. This two-season study quantified internal (session-RPE, wellness) and external (IMU-derived accelerations, decelerations, distance, sprints, heart rate, and jumps) demands across 36 games, 292 trainings, and 74 skill sessions in 18 players (20.6 ± 1.3 years, 191.9 ± 6.5 cm, 87.3 ± 7.2 kg). Players were classified as starters (>24 min/game-1), rotation (10-24 min-1), or bench (< 10 min-1). Starters accumulated greater game loads (ES = 1.65) and high intensity sprints (ES = 1.32) than rotation and bench players (p < .05). Trainings produced higher total volume but lower intensity, while games elicited more accelerations and decelerations (Zone 2 accelerations = 142 ± 38 and 27 ± 10; Zone 3 = 75 ± 44 and 67 ± 20, respectively). Game sRPE correlated with accelerations (Zone 2: r = .70; Zone 3: r = .54) and decelerations (Zone 2: r = .68; Zone 3: r = .52), indicating that sRPE reflects high-intensity demand. Integrating internal and external measures clarifies workload. Practically, bench and rotation players may benefit from high-intensity exposure, whereas moderating volume around MD + 2 may support recovery. Findings show role-specific patterns guiding evidence-based load management.