Credibility Matters in Specialized World, Expert Says

Nobel Prize winner's basketball analysis shows limits of expertise outside one's field.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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In a specialized, technical world, credibility exists in a narrow range, according to author and speaker Jim Stovall. He cites the example of a Nobel Prize-winning behavioral economist who analyzed basketball statistics but failed to account for the nuances of the sport, highlighting the importance of seeking advice from credible experts within their specific domains.

Why it matters

As society becomes increasingly specialized, it is crucial for individuals to recognize the limits of expertise and seek guidance from credible sources whose knowledge is directly applicable to the situation at hand. This story underscores the need to be discerning consumers of information, especially when it comes from prominent figures outside their areas of specialization.

The details

Stovall reviewed material compiled by a Nobel Prize-winning behavioral economist who analyzed basketball statistics, stating that three-point shots are more efficient than two-point shots because a three-pointer is worth 1.5 times more. However, Stovall's friend and former professional basketball player Jay Henderson explained that while the math may work on paper, in reality, three-point shots create rebounds farther from the basket, giving the opposing team an advantage to set up a fast break.

  • Stovall recently reviewed the material compiled by the Nobel Prize-winning economist.

The players

Jim Stovall

An author, speaker, and the president of the Emmy-award winning Tulsa-based Narrative Television Network.

Jay Henderson

Stovall's friend and colleague who runs a successful financial firm and played Division 1 college basketball and professionally in his younger days.

Yo-Yo Ma

A renowned cellist and musician who is arguably among the greatest living musicians, with a tremendous musical range.

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What they’re saying

“To verify this, I phoned my friend and colleague Jay Henderson, who today runs a very successful financial firm. In his younger days, he played Division 1 college basketball and went on to play several years professionally. Jay helped me understand and confirmed that, on paper, while there may be a statistical advantage to taking three-point shots, in reality, three-point shots create rebounds that are farther from the basket and provide an advantage to the opponents as they are more likely to get the rebound and set up a fast break at the other end of the floor.”

— Jim Stovall, Author and Speaker (tulsatoday.com)

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of seeking advice and guidance from credible experts within their specific domains of expertise, rather than relying on the opinions of prominent figures outside their areas of specialization. As society becomes increasingly specialized, it is crucial for individuals to be discerning consumers of information and to recognize the limits of expertise.