Introduction The aim of this study was to improve the level of basketball in China by examining the application of fast breaks in modern basketball teams worldwide. The study will also compare and analyze differences in the application of fast break tactics between Chinese and international teams. Methods Data was obtained through the study of 25 videotaped matches during the elimination phase of the 15th World Basketball Championship and the semifinal and final of the men`s basketball at the Athens Olympic Games. The characteristics of applied fast break tactics for the games were analyzed. Results The results indicate that fast break tactics displays many new changes and characteristics. The fast break is an important offensive method. Successful teams such as Argentina, Italy, Lithuania and America showed significant use of this method. Fast break plays were generally successful (65- 80% success rate for these teams) and the proportion of points to the overall score was as high as 14.5% for Argentina and 10% for America Conclusions From the anlalysis of the video tapes, and investigating the characteristics of fast break tactics in modern basketball, successful international teams emphasize the importance of the ability to attack and defend fast breaks effectively. Ability is the key factor in the fast break play; and defensive rebounds and steals are the most common origins for initiating a fast break. However, the characteristics of the fast break in the modern game are still not clearly understood and more study is required to perfect this technique.
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