Maturity Offset, Anthropometric Characteristics and Vertical Force–Velocity Profile in Youth Basketball Players

This work aimed to analyze the relationships between maturity offset, anthropometric variables and the vertical force–velocity profile in youth (12–18 years old) male basketball players. The vertical force–velocity profile was measured in 49 basketball players, grouped in competitive-age categories, i.e., under 14, 16 and 18 years of age (U-14, U-16 and U-18, respectively). A bivariate correlational analysis was carried out between maturity offset, anthropometric variables (height, body mass, % fat, muscle mass, bone mass and body mass index (BMI)) and vertical force–velocity profile (theoretical maximal force [F0], theoretical maximal velocity [V0], theoretical maximal power [Pmax], force–velocity imbalance [Fvimb] and force–velocity profile orientation). The results showed significant correlations (p < 0.05) between Fvimb and maturity offset at early ages of training (12–15 years). The anthropometric profile was correlated (p < 0.05) with F0 in U-14, V0 in U-16, and Pmax in U-18 basketball players. The current findings suggest a relationship between the vertical force–velocity imbalance and maturity offset and the main vertical force–velocity profile variables. The vertical force–velocity profile is hypothesized as a useful index to correct vertical force–velocity deficits according to the maturity offset of male basketball players.