Exploring the Synergistic Effects of Virtual Reality and Retrogressive Imagery on Basketball Free Throw Performance and Self-efficacy Among University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Week 1-2: Participants were asked to imagine a complete version of the FT imagery script included: a) Visualizing the court lines, the basket, and themselves standing at the free-throw line, focusing on their shooting technique. b) Imagining teammates and opponents positioned around the key, noting the main colors in the scene c) Imagining the coach standing on the sideline encouraging them, and paying attention to the sounds of the audience and the cheers from a close friend in the stands. d) Visualizing a high-pressure situation, experiencing the emotions felt during a real game with one second left on the clock, trailing by one point, with the game's outcome depending on their FT shot. Week 3-4: The exception of content "d"from the full script. Week 5-6: The exception of content "c""d"from the full script. Week 7-8: The exception of content "b""c""d"from the full script.

Standing on a lifelike full-sized basketball court, they observe smooth flooring and clear markings. Teammates and opponents don variously colored uniforms, while referees stand ready at the sidelines. Referees position teammates and opponents around the basket as participants feel the texture and weight of the basketball in their hands, as if gripping it for real. The sounds of cheering spectators and encouraging shouts from teammates and coaches further enhance their focus. Participants adjust their stance, noticing beads of sweat trickling down their arms as they prepare for the FT. With bent knees, they ready themselves for the shot, exerting every ounce of their strength as the ball leaves their hands and soars towards the basket. As the ball accurately swishes through the net, the crowd erupts into thunderous applause, and the scoreboard's change in score brings an overwhelming sense of joyous victory.