Name
Session 2, Speaker 5: Keith D’Amelio, Founder and Principal, Heretic Performance
Date & Time
Saturday, April 12, 2025, 4:50 PM - 5:10 PM
Description

The NBA & WNBA are dynamic, high-intensity leagues where game demands are constantly evolving. Understanding what drives these demands is critical for teams, coaches, and performance staff aiming to optimize player readiness, health, and performance. This talk will explore the key factors that influence game demands, including scheduling density, and player workload management. By examining these dynamics, we can gain insights into how the demands of the game shift over a season and the factors that effect them. I will also discuss the external influences—such as travel, return to play, and recovery strategies that impact how players perform and adapt to these challenges. This session is designed to provide a broader perspective on what truly drives game demands, offering practical takeaways for those looking to better understand the realities of elite basketball and the strategic considerations that come with it.

Location Name
1401
Full Address
Kline Tower
219 Prospect St
13th and 14th Floors, Registration Table in Room 1401
New Haven, CT 06511
United States
Title
Understanding Game Demands in the Elite Basketball : The Factors That Shape Performance
Abstract
The NBA & WNBA are dynamic, high-intensity leagues where game demands are constantly evolving. Understanding what drives these demands is critical for teams, coaches, and performance staff aiming to optimize player readiness, health, and performance. This talk will explore the key factors that influence game demands, including scheduling density, and player workload management. By examining these dynamics, we can gain insights into how the demands of the game shift over a season and the factors that effect them. I will also discuss the external influences—such as travel, return to play, and recovery strategies that impact how players perform and adapt to these challenges. This session is designed to provide a broader perspective on what truly drives game demands, offering practical takeaways for those looking to better understand the realities of elite basketball and the strategic considerations that come with it.
Speaker Bio
Dr. Keith D’Amelio is a leader in the realm of human performance. With a PhD in applied sports science and an extensive background in elite sports, including roles with such organizations as the Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors and Stanford University as well as Nike. Keith stands squarely at the intersection of performance optimization, technological innovation, and the evolving landscape of human performance.

A pioneer in leveraging technology and data-informed methodologies, Keith has catalyzed industry-wide adoption of cutting-edge approaches. His influence extends beyond one sport, working with athletes, teams, and organizations spanning the NBA, MLB, NBA Players Association, WNBA, NWSL, NFL, EPL, AFL, as well as within the business and start up world, showcasing his ability to drive innovation and progress across diverse sectors.

As the former Director of Athlete Performance at Nike, Keith led transformative initiatives to support Nike’s elite athletes and teams and drive innovation across the organization. His leadership in this role underscored his commitment to pushing the boundaries of human performance through focused exploration. Now as an investor, advisor, and consultant for both spor1ng organizations and companies alike, Keith empowers teams and enterprises with his unique approach and understanding of organizational dynamics.
Speaker Headshot