Expert: Michael Muro - 7/4/2006

Question
How do pro basketball teams/leagues test a player's vertical leap during combine drills?  Is there a method coaching staff use?

Answer
Hi Matt,

The way you test your vertical leap is this way. Your vertical is tested by jumping off of two feet without taking more then one step. What we do is stand by a wall and reach as high as you can up the wall and mark that spot. Then with a piece of tape or you can mark your finger with chalk or some kind of ink and take one step and jump as high as you can and touch the wall so you make a mark. Then you measure between the mark you made when standing and the mark you made when jumping and that is your vertical leap.

I am sure the NBA and Colleges have a more sophisticated equipment but that is the basic way to test your vertical.

I hope that helps...