Bet The Process Shane Battier on NBA Analytics + More | Sponsored by Novig
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Mar 2, 2026 Shane Battier, former NBA defender turned analytics advocate and company culture advisor. He recounts shifting his game through data, how analytics reshaped shot selection and player roles, and why mid-range shots faded. He predicts the rise of mobile seven-footers, talks player development and scouting for role players, and explains bringing sports culture and ‘glue’ people into business.
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How A Trade Turned Shane Into An Analytics Advocate
- Shane Battier discovered his analytical value after being traded to the Houston Rockets in 2006 and learning the team's data-driven approach.
- Daryl Morey and Sam Hinkie showed him his low-turnover, high-impact traits were analytically valuable, kickstarting his analytics journey.
Data Deconstructed Players Into Exploitable Weaknesses
- Analytics shifted scouting from surface reputation to detailed mechanics like which direction a player prefers to go.
- Battier used split data (e.g., Kobe's right-hand effectiveness) to force opponents into their weaker options.
Prioritize Rim, Three, And Free Throw Shot Profiles
- Teach players the simple modern shot hierarchy: rim, three, free throw — then align offenses to maximize those shots.
- Battier notes widespread adoption of shot charts flattened the data advantage, so teams focus on creating more possessions and open threes.