Comparing the impression of “coolness” and “skillfulness” in freestyle basketball battles:

From action to waiting

Abstract

This study compares the impressions of "coolness" and "skillfulness" that occur when waiting for a turn in a freestyle basketball (FB) battle. Six male participants with experience as FB battle judges examined 3D model experimental stimuli and rated their impressions, then asked why they had given that rating. The results showed that ratings were not consistent among the participants. When the scores of coolness and skillfulness were examined, a strong correlation was found, but the coefficient of determination was only 0.639, meaning there was not a complete explanation. Correspondence analysis of the interview content showed that coolness was characterized by words such as "waiting," and skillfulness was connected to words such as "entering," "handling the ball," and "using the body”. We believe that coolness was judged based on whether the player felt that they were being watched by the audience as they were waiting for a turn.