Research
Turning Insight Into Action
Our research explores the evolving dynamics of the sports industry, delivering insights that inform business strategy and spark innovation. We connect academic expertise with industry needs to produce actionable knowledge that makes an impact on and off the field.

Research projects

UT Basketball player dribbles ball

Transfer AI - UT Basketball

With 2,500+ players entering the transfer portal in 2024, TransferAI gives Texas Men’s and Women’s Basketball coaches a data-driven edge. Our app ranks every Division 1 player by role, using advanced stats and predictive models to identify top transfer fits.

NBA Hawkeye visualization

NBA Hawk-eye + Spurs

Using Hawk-Eye Innovations motion tracking data, we analyzed every NBA free throw from the 2023-2024 season. Our tool reveals shooting metrics like release angle and entry point, helping identify what separates makes from misses.

Research team uses motion capture to track basketball shooting metrics

WNbA Draft Model

This research explores use of statistics to predict which players might thrive in the WNBA. Using boxscore and advanced metrics dating back over 10 years, we were able to predict prospective players’ WNBA impact during their rookie years.

UT Longhorn quarterback throws football

Transfer AI - UT Football

Our TransferAI app helps Texas coaches navigate the NCAA Transfer Portal by predicting performance for potential recruits. Our models generate player scores for nearly every position group, and we provide filters tailored to team needs. 

Field Goal Bot data visualization

Field Goal Bot

This project uses ball-tracking data from 860+ NFL kicks to model field goal accuracy beyond make or miss. By scoring each kick based on precision, distance, and wind, we deliver a clearer picture of kicker performance.

Research team uses motion capture to track basketball shooting metrics

Longhorn Shooting Lab

Our motion capture system records every detail of an athlete’s shot. We analyze biomechanics and repeatability to improve performance, reduce injury risk, and optimize skill development for Longhorn athletes.

Research in Action

Longhorn Shooting Lab

Student Impact

Raina Parikh

Former Undergraduate Research Associate, Class of 2026

Working on the TransferAI products, which required constant collaboration with Texas Athletics, gave me the opportunity to learn about the intersection between sports and technology and helped me launch a postgraduate career in sports technology. BOSI’s supportive community helped me explore my passions in sports. Without it, I would not have the fulfilling career I do today.

Sana Kholi

Former Undergraduate Research Associate, Class of 2026

Before working with BOSI, I knew I always loved technology, data, and sports, but separately. TransferAI let me bring all three interests together. Building something coaches actually rely on for real decisions is vastly different from a class assignment, and few undergraduates get that opportunity.This hands-on experience gave me a strong foundation as an engineer, one that continues to shape how I approach my work today.

Jake McGrath

Former Graduate Research Associate, Physics Ph.D., Class of 2026 

Working with the Business of Sports Institute was one of the most rewarding parts of my Physics Ph.D. It allowed me to apply quantitative skills to sports analytics while learning to communicate results clearly and focus on real-world impact. This interdisciplinary experience broadened my perspective beyond academia and strengthened my resume with concrete data science projects, ultimately helping me stand out in interviews and land an industry position.

Michelle Nguyen

Former Undergraduate Research Associate, Class of 2025

The Business of Sports Institute greatly impacted my college experience at UT. I was able to gain real-world sports analytics experience, work with Texas Athletics, and strengthen my analytical and engineering skills. The staff and professors at BOSI helped me pursue my passions and connected me with those willing to teach me. I’m grateful to have found an organization on campus that provided such extensive learning and professional growth opportunities!

Student Research Team

The student research team is led by Business of Sports Institute faculty and staff in collaboration with Texas Athletics and other industry partners.

Headshot of Jake McGrath

Jake McGrath

Graduate Research Associate

Braden Carter Headshot

Braden Carter

Undergraduate Research Associate

Headshot of Travis Edwards

Travis Edwards

Undergraduate Research Associate

Sana Kohli Headshot

Sana Kohli

Undergraduate Research Associate

Raina Parikh Headshot

Raina Parikh

Undergraduate Research Associate

Headshot of Varun Ramanathan

Varun Ramanathan

Undergraduate Research Associate

Rushil Shah Headshot

Rushil Shah

Undergraduate Research Associate

Headshot of Annie Thomas

Annie Thomas

Undergraduate Research Associate

Nathan Tran

Nathan Tran

Undergraduate Research Associate

Headshot of Claudio Yruegas

Claudio Yruegas

Undergraduate Research Associate

UT Sports Analytics Reading Group
Explore the science behind the game. The UT Sports Analytics Reading Group is an interdisciplinary community of graduate students, postdocs, and faculty who read and discuss the latest academic papers in sports analytics. Join the email list to be part of the conversation. The group is led by Data Science Professor Amanda Glazer.
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Sports Analytics
Contact Us
Please email if you would like more information about how you or your organization can collaborate with the Business of Sports Institute.