Fantasy basketball can feel overwhelming at first. With so many statistics — points, assists, rebounds, steals, turnovers, blocks, FG%, and more — it’s easy to get lost in the numbers. But if you want to win your league on FantasyTeamBoost, understanding which stats truly matter is a game-changer.
Scoring vs. Categories: Know Your Format
The first thing to identify is your league format. Is it points-based or categories-based?
- In points-based leagues, each action (a point scored, a rebound grabbed, a turnover committed) adds or subtracts from your total team score. Think of it like fantasy football.
- In categories-based leagues, you compete in individual stat categories (e.g., most rebounds, best free throw percentage). Each week you earn wins or losses based on who dominates each category.
Knowing your league type will completely change your approach. For example, in a points league, a high-usage player who turns the ball over may still be valuable. In categories, turnovers could hurt you.
The Underrated Stats
Everyone looks at points per game — but fantasy veterans know that secondary stats often win matchups.
- Rebounds and Assists: These are the glue of consistent fantasy value. Centers and big forwards often dominate the glass, while point guards rack up assists. Don’t overlook role players who average 7+ in either stat — they’re gold.
- Steals and Blocks: These “defensive gems” swing weeks. A guy who gets 2+ steals or 1.5+ blocks per game can shift entire categories. They’re also harder to predict, making them valuable when consistent.
- Turnovers: These can kill your week in categories formats. Players with high usage (like Russell Westbrook in his prime) often commit many. Look for efficient players who protect the ball — it’s a subtle but powerful edge.
Advanced Metrics: When to Dive Deeper
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start exploring advanced stats like:
- Usage Rate (USG%): Tells you how involved a player is in the offense. Higher usage = more opportunity.
- PER (Player Efficiency Rating): Measures overall effectiveness. Good for identifying undervalued players.
- Fantasy Points Per Minute (FPPM): Key for spotting bench players who deliver big in limited minutes.
The more you understand how these numbers translate to fantasy value, the better you’ll draft, trade, and manage your lineup. Data is your secret weapon — and on FantasyTeamBoost, we give you all the tools to master it.