Within the framework of the study, an analysis was conducted of the system of technical and tactical preparation of basketball players aged 12–16, carried out at the intersection of sport pedagogy, cognitive psychology, and applied biomechanics. The study synthesizes up-to-date information on the global youth sport market, the volume of which in 2024 reached 13.9 billion United States dollars. The purpose of the work is the experimental verification of the effectiveness of differential training (DT) and cognitive-coordination training (CCT) when compared with traditional linear approaches to the construction of training programs. Substantively, the emphasis is placed on the regularities of the formation of tactical competence through small-sided game interactions, considered as an instrument for the purposeful complication of the game environment and for improving the quality of rapid situation analysis. The mechanisms of developing stable decision-making algorithms under conditions of time deficit and external pressure are described, which makes it possible to link technical actions with cognitive processes of forecasting, selection, and execution control. As empirical corroboration, statistical indicators of the effectiveness of training interventions for the groups are presented, including parameters of shooting accuracy, tempo characteristics of ball handling, and the developmental dynamics of sport-specific endurance. The obtained results are interpreted as confirmation of the hypothesis that the inclusion of variability in motor tasks and targeted cognitive load in the structure of preparation ensures a statistically significant increase in game skills and an enhancement of young athletes’ adaptability to the changing demands of competitive activity. In conclusion, recommendations are provided for coaching staff, oriented toward the improvement of defensive interactions and the optimization of coordination preparation of the sport reserve.

basketball, technical and tactical preparation, young athletes, coordination, tactical literacy, decision-making, cognitive training, defense, sport statistics, differential training

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