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Decision Making in a Sequential Game

Author

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  • Alan Deck
  • Cary Deck
  • Zhen Zhu

Abstract

This article uses data from NASCAR to examine strategic decision making with professional players and high stakes. The authors look at driver decisions to pit, enabling car performance to be improved at the cost of track position. Unlike other sports choices that have been used to test game-theoretic play, pitting decisions occur sequentially. Therefore, optimal decision making should result in the sub-game perfect equilibrium outcome. After estimating the likelihood of successfully passing another driver, the authors find some evidence that drivers make optimal decisions; however, driver behavior is also consistent with a simple heuristic of following the preceding car.

Suggested Citation

  • Alan Deck & Cary Deck & Zhen Zhu, 2014. "Decision Making in a Sequential Game," Journal of Sports Economics, , vol. 15(2), pages 132-149, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jospec:v:15:y:2014:i:2:p:132-149
    DOI: 10.1177/1527002512443828
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Brad Humphreys & Bernd Frick, 2019. "Prize Structure and Performance: Evidence from NASCAR," Economies, MDPI, vol. 7(4), pages 1-13, October.
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    Cited by:

    1. Brad Humphreys & Bernd Frick, 2019. "Prize Structure and Performance: Evidence from NASCAR," Economies, MDPI, vol. 7(4), pages 1-13, October.
    2. David M. Yaskewich, 2017. "Heterogeneous Ability and Risk Taking in a Rank-Order Tournament," Journal of Sports Economics, , vol. 18(8), pages 803-830, December.

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