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Integration and Team Performance in the NBA

Author

Listed:
  • Amanda Olsen
  • Michael A. Leeds

Abstract

The causes and effects of the integration of the NBA have received far less attention than the integration of other sports. We use survival analysis to examine whether integration was led by successful franchises or unsuccessful teams. We then go on to examine the contributions of Black players in the 1950s and early 1960s. Specifically, we ask whether teams that relied more heavily on Black players were more successful, as was the case in baseball. We also examine the degree to which individual Black players contributed to their teams.

Suggested Citation

  • Amanda Olsen & Michael A. Leeds, 2024. "Integration and Team Performance in the NBA," Journal of Sports Economics, , vol. 25(2), pages 257-278, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jospec:v:25:y:2024:i:2:p:257-278
    DOI: 10.1177/15270025231217962
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    basketball; racial discrimination; survival models; performance;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • Z22 - Other Special Topics - - Sports Economics - - - Labor Issues
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing
    • Z21 - Other Special Topics - - Sports Economics - - - Industry Studies

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