Physical fitness and competitive readiness in NCC basketball trainees: A gender-based trend forecasting

Background: Forecasting competitive readiness in basketball has shifted from outcome-based evaluation to structured performance trend analysis. Camp-based fitness profiling offers an opportunity to estimate medal potential through measurable physical indicators rather than relying solely on match results. Objective: The present study aimed to examine gender-based physical fitness trends among NCC basketball trainees and to apply a descriptive forecasting framework to estimate competitive readiness. Methods: A combined sample of 36 male and female NCC basketball trainees (18-25 years) participated during the preparatory camp phase. Performance variables included Standing Broad Jump (SBJ2), 20-yard Shuttle Run, 50 m sprint, one-minute sit-ups, and 600-yard run. Mean and standard deviation were calculated for anthropometric characteristics, and Pearson correlation analysis was applied to examine interrelationships among fitness parameters. State-wise performance trends were analysed for forecasting interpretation. Results: Strong interrelationships were observed between explosive power and sprint performance (r = -0.84*, p