Perceptual–motor performance and neural conduction asymmetries in elite basketball players

Abstract Background This study investigated whether the dominant hand would exhibit faster nerve conduction velocity, lower muscle activation latency, and superior Coincidence Anticipation Timing (CAT) performance compared to the non-dominant hand, reflecting enhanced neuromuscular efficiency and perceptual accuracy due to sport-specific training adaptations. Methods This study employed a single-group, between subject comparative design to examine perceptual–motor performance and neuromuscular activation characteristics of the dominant and non-dominant hands. CAT and basal electromyographic (EMG) measurements were obtained separately for each hand, followed by task-related CAT performance during which EMG signals were recorded simultaneously. Comparisons between dominant and non-dominant hands were performed using independent samples t-tests. Results The dominant hand exhibited significantly greater AE and VE across general and nerve-specific measures (p < 0.01), with large to very large effect sizes, indicating differences in perceptual timing accuracy and consistency. Median nerve latency was shorter in the dominant hand, whereas median nerve amplitude did not differ significantly between hands. In contrast, ulnar nerve latency was longer and ulnar nerve amplitude was lower in the dominant hand, reflecting asymmetrical peripheral neural characteristics. Task-induced changes analyses demonstrated significant increases in nerve latency and reductions in amplitude in both limbs (p < 0.001), suggesting neuromuscular strain following task execution. Correlation analyses revealed weak-to-moderate associations between CAT errors and EMG parameters (r = 0.25–0.45), indicating that perceptual–motor performance is only partially explained by peripheral neuromuscular activation. Conclusion Elite basketball players demonstrate distinct perceptual–motor and neurophysiological asymmetries between dominant and non-dominant hands. The integration of CAT outcomes with sEMG and nerve conduction measures provides a comprehensive approach for characterizing perceptual–motor performance and neuromuscular function. These findings may inform bilateral training strategies and neuromuscular monitoring practices aimed at optimizing performance and reducing neural strain in basketball players. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07253623, Date: 11.19.2025. Retrospectively registered.