Observational collective efficacy in sports: A study on elite basketball players

The aim of this study was to determine the observational collective efficacy levels of elite basketball players and to examine whether these levels differ based on gender, age, league level, years of sport experience, and national team participation. The study was conducted using a correlational survey design. The sample consisted of 201 elite basketball players (109 females, 92 males) actively competing in various Turkish leagues during the 2024–2025 season. Data were collected via a demographic information form and the Observational Collective Efficacy Scale for Sports (OCESS). Non-parametric statistical tests including Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis H, and Spearman's rho correlation were employed for data analysis. The findings revealed statistically significant differences in collective efficacy scores based on age and league level (p <0.05). Players aged 31 and above and those competing in the Turkish Basketball Super League reported higher collective efficacy. No significant differences were found based on gender, national team status, or years of experience; however, positive correlations were observed between collective efficacy and age as well as experience. Collective efficacy perceptions among elite basketball players are significantly influenced by certain demographic and sport-specific variables. However, the nature of these relationships is complex and multidimensional, suggesting the need for further studies that consider additional psychosocial factors sucu as leadership, team structure, and social dynamics.