Abstract

• This study examined the Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Sport Performance (SP) of athletes from the Yangon University of Economics. A total of 34 basketball players were involved in the cross sectional survey representing the open-skill athletes. The perceived levels of EI and SP of the athletes were assessed through self-rating, using a structured questionnaire with Likert scale items. In general, open-skill athletes often exhibited high EI levels only in relationship management. It was found that most of the athletes had EI scores within the effective functioning or enhanced skills level. The possible relationship between the athletes’ level of EI and SP was examined via Spearman’s correlation. Results revealed that the SP of basketball players (open-skill athletes) was significantly correlated (P<0.05) to relationship management (r=0.903) but not significantly correlated (P>0.1) to their self-awareness (r=0.736), self-management (r=0.874) and social awareness (r=0.929). In general, it can be deduced that the SP level of the open-skill athletes appeared to improve with increasing EI level. Implementation of motivational programs aimed at enhancing the EI levels among open-skilled athletes are recommended to boost their SP during the game.