Sex and Maturity Modulate the Link between Sprint Mechanics and Multidirectional Speed

This study aimed to (1) evaluate the influence of maturity and sex on the horizontal force-velocity profile and multidirectional speed performance in youth basketball players and (2) analyze the sex- and maturity-specific associations of the mechanical variables derived from the horizontal force-velocity profile with curvilinear sprint and change of direction performance. Ninety-nine youth basketball players from an elite academy were classified into two maturational groups based on their estimated years from peak height velocity (mid-peak height velocity and post-peak height velocity). A cross-sectional design was implemented to compare the mechanical variables of the force-velocity profile, including theorical maximal force and velocity, maximal power output and the ratio of the horizontal-to-resultant force across maturation and between sexes. These variables were also analyzed in relation to curvilinear sprint and change of direction performance. The post-peak height velocity group exhibited significantly greater horizontal force-velocity profile parameters (an effect size from 0.70 to 2.06), and faster curvilinear sprint and change of direction performances (an effect size from 0.29 to 2.49), compared to the mid-peak height velocity group in both sexes. Additionally, the velocity, maximal power output and the ratio of horizontal-to-resultant force were moderately to largely associated (r _range from 0.41 to 0.81) with faster curvilinear sprint and change of direction performance in both mid- and post-peak height velocity men players. These findings highlight the relevance of considering individual force-velocity profiles to monitor performance and better understand multidirectional speed across maturation.