Freelance sports psychologist and journalist Nora Elisabeth Van den Heuvel might already be known for her unique take on covering NBA competitions, but this is not the only way to describe her impact. She is also an avid believer of how multifaceted approaches can provide an unparalleled level of insight before, during, and after a game. She recently attended one of our virtual podcasts, and was kind enough to explain her revolutionary approach to sportscasting.
Out with the Old
While Nora may be somewhat of a maverick in her field, the same was said about Michael Jordan at one time, and she is certainly qualified to offer her perspective on the current state of NBA journalism. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Media from the University of Liden, and a Master’s Degree in Sports Psychology from the University of Amsterdam. We asked her how this background has influenced her approach to sportscasting.
“I feel that so-called ‘hard’ educational backgrounds can provide any journalist with a more well-rounded approach. While they are partially reporting on specific events, they can use this knowledge to draw additional conclusions, and to provide fans with a greater degree of insight.”
However, she also stressed that she was not trying to reinvent the proverbial wheel in any way. She simply feels that those who have obtained a higher education may be able to augment their talents as sports journalists. This also led us into the next major point.
Technicals and Fundamentals
A bit of an explanation is in order before moving on. Technical sports indicators include variables such as three-point percentages, rebounds, assists, and the number of away games that a team may win during a season. Fundamentals are associated with the “softer” side of things, such as player psychology, emotions, and perceived levels of motivation.
“It is difficult to reconcile these two sides of the equation, but they can also provide a massive amount of information if interpreted correctly. To put it another way, statistics alone do not paint the whole picture. Human psychology is just as important (if not more so).”
Her previous university studies become quite apparent here, as she is looking far beyond the journalistic side of the NBA. For example, how many times do we hear a sportscaster commenting on the mental state of LeBron James, or whether Karl-Anthony Towns seems to be rattled due to his emotional state?
Storytelling as Opposed to Reporting
Nora is likewise quick to point out that there is a massive difference between narrating an NBA game, and telling a story. Fans who prefer narratives can simply navigate to basketball-related websites after the game, or collate analytical data. However, most prefer to become engrossed in the competition. As she states, “why provide the summary of a chapter if you can guide the reader through an entire book?”
This is also when it becomes challenging to strike a delicate balance between the two sides of the equation. While journalists are obviously concerned with raw data, and play-by-play updates, they must also be willing to delve a bit deeper into how psychology may exert an equal role. It is also quite clear that not all journalists possess this unique ability.
The Role of Technology
Nora is no stranger to digital technology, and she has already made her presence known across numerous reputable online platforms. This is why we decided to ask her if the IT community can be used to obtain an edge when covering an NBA game.
“Absolutely. Modern digital technology has evolved in leaps and bounds over the past few years. Whether wagering on the outcome of a game between the Bulls and the Celtics, or analyzing the latest point spreads, the automated nature of these systems will provide an undeniable edge.”
She further explains that certain types of software can be particularly useful. Citing ChatGPT as a prime example, she continues:
“The rise of Generative Artificial Intelligence provides the ability to collect an incredible array of player data, to highlight specific coaching styles, and even to predict (to a certain degree) which NBA teams may face each other in the playoffs. We have entered a brave new world.”
Two Sides of the Same Coin
Nora Elisabeth Van den Heuvel believes that chronicling NBA games represents much more than real-time reporting. It should instead involve an in-depth knowledge of the game, a passion for the sport, and the ability to correctly combine discrete types of data sets. This will provide fans with even more insight, and these very same skills could even be employed by other industries such as online sports betting.
“There’s certainly nothing mystical about what I do,” she promises. “It’s simply a skill that I have attempted to hone over the years, and there’s still plenty of room for improvement. I’m hoping that other sportscasters will begin to follow the same path in the coming years.”
While the verdict is still out on this final observation, it is clear to see that Ms. Van der Huevel is no stranger to innovation. Those who are interested in learning more should make it a point to follow her latest social media posts, as she always has something to say.
