Maxwell James Sterling, Expert: “Having Data Shouldn’t Mean Losing Control of the Game”

The fast-paced world of sports analytics provides little room for error, and this is why the services provided by data journalism experts such as Maxwell James Sterling have taken on a life of their own. We decided to speak with him about the relationship between data, and sports betting. Let’s see what this modern-day guru has to say.

Question. Can you explain why losing data shouldn’t mean losing control of the game?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Simply stated, data is a powerful asset. However, it’s not the only asset. Human elements play an equally important role.”

Q. Do you feel that analysts tend to rely too much on data alone?

Maxwell James Sterling. “In some cases, yes. The issue here is that data can provide a false sense of confidence; leading to mistakes. Having data shouldn’t mean losing control of the game; it should help you read it better.”

Q. Was data the primary reason you decided to pursue a degree in statistics from the University of Oxford?

Maxwell James Sterling.  “While I’ve always loved data, I’m just as interested in the story that it can tell in relation to sports. So, yes and no.”

Q. Some of your recent interviews have discussed the relationship between intuition and data from the perspective of a coach. Can you provide us with more insight?

Maxwell James Sterling. “I feel that coaches should make it a point to take data and statistics into account. Relying too much on either one alone can spell disaster in the world of professional sports.”

Q. So, you’re saying that too much data is a bad thing?

Maxwell James Sterling. “In a way, yes. Analytics alone can hardly be used to describe what is often an extremely complicated concept. This is the same reason why sports betting algorithms can make occasional mistakes.”

5.Can you provide us with an example of this observation?

Maxwell James Sterling. “One example involves the recent trend of over-analysing player statistics without taking into account other factors, such as team chemistry. This has become rife throughout the online betting community.”

Q. Do you feel that such data-driven approaches are becoming more commonplace?

Maxwell James Sterling. “For better or worse, yes. My own studies seem to indicate a proclivity towards data alone. This is a shame, as we’re really missing the big picture here.”

Q. Why do you think that data (particularly big data) has taken centre stage?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Frankly, it involves sheer availability. It’s easy to collate massive amounts of information with the help of artificial intelligence. This makes it very tempting to rely on statistics alone.”

Q. You mentioned AI. Do you believe that artificial intelligence might cause more harm than good?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Much like any system, this depends on how it’s employed. Using AI as a supplemental tool is a great idea. However, it should never be considered the only available option.”

Q. You’re essentially saying that convenience isn’t always the best solution?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Listen. Sports wagering is both an art form and a science. Even the most advanced data analytics are only a single facet of a much larger equation.”

Q. So, the key is striking a delicate balance between both sides?

Maxwell James Sterling. “This is the vision, yes. However, it’s much more difficult to implement this principle in real-world scenarios.”

Q. How might teams be able to leverage the best of both worlds?

Maxwell James Sterling. “I believe that it all starts with communication. Coaches and team leaders should discuss how to apply raw data in a way that encourages conversation.”

Q. So, openness plays a key role?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Without a doubt! Coaches should collate, interpret, and use data to their advantage. However, they must also ensure that everyone is on the same page throughout the process.”

Q. Why do you feel that this is still such a challenge?

Maxwell James Sterling. “I’ll use my current compendium of online research as an example. I can find it difficult to reconcile the notion of a ‘gut feeling’ with objective decision-making processes. In other words, we have to listen to the data; even if it doesn’t agree with our preconceived notions.”

Q. Do you think that advanced tools might be able to provide analysts with a more objective edge?

Maxwell James Sterling. “I think that we’re on the cusp of great things; especially when discussing the user-friendly nature of the latest tools. Still, it’s all about how these systems are utilised.”

Q. Going back to the sports betting side of the equation, how might wagering enthusiasts react to these options?

Maxwell James Sterling. “It depends on the person. While the younger generation is more likely to adopt these platforms, I have the feeling that traditionalists will remain fixed in their ways.”

Q. Are there any specific sites that you would recommend to those who want to keep abreast of the latest advancements?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Too many to cite. Any portal that provides the latest reliable information in an easy-to-digest format is a good tool to leverage.”

Q. Do you think that social media is a reliable source for data?

Maxwell James Sterling. “Yes and no. I make it a point to provide regular updates on my X feed. Unfortunately, you can’t always trust that the information itself is accurate. In other words, buyers beware.”

Q. What about the role that AI is set to play in the coming years?

Maxwell James Sterling. “I’m keeping a close eye on this technology; especially machine learning algorithms. I feel that they could very well revolutionise how data is scraped, formatted, and interpreted.”

Q. What advice would you give to someone who is considering data analytics in their sports betting strategy?

Maxwell James Sterling. “It’s all about balance. While knowledge is power, remember that data alone will present a somewhat monochromatic picture. The colours begin to emerge when we consider other ‘organic’ variables.”