The integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into sports training has emerged as a promising approach for improving athletes’ skill acquisition, tactical awareness, and motor performance. Traditional basketball training primarily relies on physical practice and coach feedback, which may limit opportunities for individualized skill enhancement and real-time motion analysis. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality as a tool for improving basketball players’ individual skills and movement efficiency compared with conventional training methods.

A quasi-experimental design was employed involving 40 semi-professional basketball players divided into a control group (traditional drills) and an experimental group (VR-assisted training). Over eight weeks, the VR group engaged in immersive, scenario-based simulations that replicated real-game conditions, focusing on dribbling, passing, and shooting decision-making under pressure. Pre- and post-intervention assessments measured performance metrics such as reaction time, shooting accuracy, movement coordination, and decision-making efficiency.

Results demonstrated that participants in the VR group showed statistically significant improvements in shooting accuracy (p < 0.05), faster reaction times, and better spatial awareness compared to the control group. Qualitative feedback also indicated increased motivation, engagement, and confidence among players using VR tools. However, limitations included limited access to high-fidelity VR systems and potential motion sickness for some users.