This project is a series of analytical test which analyzes the most prevalent skill types in the modern NBA. In the project the skill types of Spot Up Shooter, Pick and Roll Ball Handler, Post Up Big Man, and Isolation were all addressed. The goal of the project is to figure out which skill types every team should look to maximize on their roster in order to maximize their win output, only using statistic from the 2022-23 NBA season. From there, an in-depth look into the skill type's salaries was achieved, providing insight into how much money should be allotted for the skill types. From this, the Spot Up Shooter skill type was determined to be the most impactful on winning. They provide more than 0.5 wins than the other skill types we analyzed, and the tests demonstrate its conclusive how Spot Up Shooters provide the most positive impact for teams towards output and success on the court. From here, we were able to determine the portion of salaries which should go to each skill type. The Spot Up Shooter skill type should have the highest portion of a team's salary cap, coming in at about $29 million (of the average $151 million salary payroll which teams spent in 2022-23 season) followed by the Pick and Roll Ball Handlers ($18 Million), Post Up Big Men ($21 Million), and lastly Isolation players ($27 million). In all, the Spot Up Shooters skill type was clearly the most prominent skill type analyzed.

Dr. Zaharia's impact on this independent study, let alone the entirety on my education here at SLU, has been nothing short of incredible and has provided me an indelible experience. His continued support, knowledge, and mentorship has helped me grow not only as a student but also as a career professional. He has never not been there for me in my experience at SLU and is always dependable. I will always cherish the class time and conversations I’ve had with him, and I’m certain it’ll carry through into my next steps after graduation. Thank you Noni!