Thinking Basketball #351: NBA trends (and college comps) with Jordan Sperber
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Dec 4, 2025 Jordan Sperber, a basketball analyst and creator of HoopVision, delves into NBA and college basketball trends. He discusses how innovations like increased offensive rebounding and aggressive full-court pressure are shaping both levels of the game. The conversation highlights Houston's strategic rebounding approach and how modern lineups challenge traditional roles like the point guard. They also explore the implications of rising zone defenses and unique offensive styles, including Zach Edey's role as a modern post player.
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Offensive Rebounds Are Back
- Offensive rebounding declined with pace-and-space and three-point growth but has rebounded in recent years league-wide.
- Teams like Houston and Phoenix now grab far more offensive rebounds by design or personnel, reversing the low point around 21%.
Crashing Patterns Vary By Team
- Tracking data shows more possessions where multiple players crash the glass, peaking this season.
- Teams vary: some crash lots (Phoenix, Boston) while others rely on single elite rebounders (Milwaukee, Knicks).
Houston's Rebounding System Example
- Jordan Sperber recounts Houston's persistent offensive rebounding under Kelvin Sampson as a system-level effect.
- Their personnel, shot selection, and hustle produce extreme rebound rates, especially on jumpers.