In professional basketball, a loss of possession due to player error is a common occurrence. These errors, often referred to as miscues, can arise from errant passes, dribbling mistakes, or offensive fouls. Quantifying these miscues on a team basis allows for the assessment of ball security and offensive efficiency. For example, a team frequently losing possession through easily avoidable errors is likely to struggle with maintaining scoring opportunities.
The number of these errors a team commits directly impacts its chances of winning games. Minimizing them allows for more shot attempts and reduces opportunities for the opposing team to score. Historically, teams prioritizing ball security have often demonstrated greater consistency in regular season and playoff performance. Efficient teams often emphasize precise passing and disciplined offensive execution to maintain possession.