Best Books for All Sports Analysts in 2024

Sports analysis is an art that requires precision, knowledge, and a thirst for insights. Whether you’re a seasoned analyst or just dipping your toes into the world of sports data, these books offer a treasure trove of knowledge to elevate your skills. From the intricacies of basketball to the power of statistics in tennis, here’s a curated list of must-reads that will expand your horizons and deepen your understanding of sports analysis.

Contents

Analyzing Wimbledon: The Power of Statistics

Author: Keith Lyons

“Analyzing Wimbledon” unleashes the power of statistics on one of tennis’ grandest stages. Explore the data-driven insights that unravel the mysteries of this prestigious tournament. From serve speeds to rally patterns, you’ll learn how data-driven insights can revolutionise your approach to tennis analysis. Whether you’re a tennis fan or an aspiring analyst, this book offers a unique perspective on the game.

The Midrange Theory: Basketball's Evolution In the Age of Analytics

Authors: Seth Partnow & Tim Bontemps

“The Midrange Theory” explores the changing landscape of basketball analytics. Seth Partnow and Tim Bontemps dissect the impact of data on the game, from shot selection to player efficiency. If you’re passionate about the numbers behind basketball’s evolution, this book provides a deep dive into the analytics shaping the sport.

The MVP Machine: How Baseball's New Nonconformists Are Using Data to Build Better Players

Authors: Ben Lindbergh & Travis Sawchik

“The MVP Machine” by Ben Lindbergh and Travis Sawchik reveals how data-driven techniques are shaping baseball’s future. Explore player development, innovative training methods, and the quest for the next MVP. If you’re fascinated by the intersection of data and baseball, this book uncovers the secrets behind building better players.

Net Gains: Inside the Beautiful Game’s Analytics Revolution

Authors: Ryan O'Hanlon

Uncover the analytics revolution in soccer with “Net Gains.” This book takes you on a global tour of soccer’s history, introducing innovators who are reshaping the sport. Ryan O’Hanlon, a staff writer at ESPN, delves into the rise of analytics in soccer, revealing the tactics and metrics transforming the beautiful game. Get behind-the-scenes access to cutting-edge clubs’ analytics departments and meet a diverse cast of characters, from number-crunchers to tech insiders, all working to decode the complexities of soccer’s key aspects, from possession to talent development.

The Q Factor: The Elusive Search for the Next Great NFL Quarterback

Authors: Brian Billick & James Dale

“The Q Factor” by Brian Billick and James Dale takes you on a quest to find the next NFL quarterback sensation. Discover the intricacies of quarterback evaluation, from physical attributes to mental acumen. If you’re a football enthusiast eager to decode the quarterback puzzle, this book provides valuable insights.

Crickonomics: The Anatomy of Modern Cricket

Author: Stefan Szymanski & Tim Wigmore

“Crickonomics” immerses you in the world of modern cricket, dissecting the sport through a lens of economics, statistics, and strategy. Dive into the intricacies of the game, from player performance to team dynamics, and gain insights into how data has transformed cricket. Whether you’re a seasoned cricket enthusiast or a budding analyst, this book, recognised as the Waterstones Sports Book of the Year in 2022, unlocks the secrets behind the success and evolution of one of the world’s most popular sports.

AI for Sports (AI for Everything)

Authors: Chris Brady, Karl Tuyls & Shayegan Omidshafiei

AI for Sports explores the fascinating realm where artificial intelligence and sports intersect. With leading experts in sports management and AI, this book delves into the practical applications of AI in sports, from recruiting and performance optimisation to health and fitness, coaching, broadcasting, eSports, and stadium design. Discover the future possibilities of AI in sports and how it can revolutionise the industry. If you’re passionate about the evolving landscape of sports analytics and technology, “AI for Sports (AI for Everything)” is a must-read to grasp the incredible potential AI holds for the future of sports.

Expected Goals: The story of how data conquered football and changed the game forever

Author: Rory Smith

“Expected Goals” dives into the modern football landscape, exploring the impact of data on the sport. From Liverpool to Bayern Munich, this book uncovers how clubs harnessed data to discover new talents, develop groundbreaking tactics, and chart their path to triumph. It’s a must-read for football enthusiasts and data-driven thinkers, shedding light on the game’s transformation.

Spaced Out: The Tactical Evolution of the Modern NBA

Author: Mike Prada

“Spaced Out” provides a court-level view of the modern NBA, unraveling the tactical transformation of the game. From the explosion of three-point shooting to the ebb and flow of zone defense, this book delves into the strategies and skills that define today’s basketball. Mike Prada explores how historical forces have reshaped the sport, making it a must-read for savvy fans, players, and coaches who seek a deeper understanding of the game.

Everything You'll Ever Need to Know About Hockey Analytics: (And a Lot More)

Author: Joshua Pollock

Hockey analytics are no longer hidden in the shadows; they’ve stepped into the spotlight. This book serves as your ultimate guide to navigating the world of hockey analytics. From ranking goalies to assessing the performance of hockey nations, it covers a wide spectrum of insights.

 

This book breaks down complex concepts into digestible nuggets of knowledge. Dive into the exciting universe of hockey data and explore the game from a fresh perspective, allowing you to unravel the deeper layers of the sport.

Upload work

Showcase Your Analysis

Will you take 1 minute to post your work?