IntroductionAlthough previous research found that small-sided game (SSG) training was more enjoyable than high-intensity interval training (HIT) in various sports, no data were provided during longer training period in basketball. Furthermore, the comparison of internal loads between the two training approaches needs to be further examined. Thus, this study aimed to examine the acute physiological, perceived exertion and enjoyment responses during 4-week progressive basketball SSG or HIT programs.MethodsNineteen female collegiate basketball players were randomly assigned to two groups that performed either HIT (n= 10) or SSG (n= 9) 3 times per week for 4 continuous weeks. Average and percentage of maximal heart rate (HRmeanand %HRmax), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and physical activity enjoyment (PACES) were determined during each training session.ResultsThere was a main group effect in PACES (p< 0.001;ηp2= 0.44, moderate), and SSG had higher PACES than HIT in each week (p< 0.05). There were no significant interactions or main group effects in HRmean, %HRmaxor RPE, but a main time effect was found in HRmean(p= 0.004;ηp2= 0.16, minimum), %HRmax(p< 0.001;ηp2= 0.25, minimum), and RPE (p< 0.001;ηp2= 0.31, moderate), respectively. In the SSG group, although no significant differences were found in HR responses, %HRmaxwas below 90% in week 1 and week 2. Accompanied with changes in %HRmax, RPE in week 1 and week 2 was lower than that in week 3 and week 4 (p< 0.05).ConclusionOur findings suggest that SSG and HIT elicit similar acute HR response and RPE level, but SSG is perceived as more enjoyable and therefore it is more likely to increase exercise motivation and adherence comparing to HIT. Moreover, it seems that half-court, 2 vs. 2 SS Gtraining format with modified rules and lasting ≥ 7.5 min should be prescribed as an enjoyable training alternative to provide optimal cardiovascular stimuli (> 90% of HRmax) for female basketball players.