What it is
Patellar tendinopathy — often called "jumper's knee" — is pain and reduced load tolerance in the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shin. It is an overuse problem: repetitive jumping and landing load the tendon faster than it can adapt. Despite the old name "tendinitis", it is usually not primarily an inflammation problem, which is why simple rest rarely resolves it on its own.
Why basketball players get it
Jumping volume is the driver. Spikes in training or game load — a new season, a camp, returning after a break — are the classic trigger. Tendons adapt slowly, so progressive, managed loading is central both to recovery and prevention.
What the evidence supports
The best available evidence on exercise for patellar tendinopathy is genuinely limited — a 2025 Cochrane review rated it low to very low certainty. Clinically, progressive loading (including heavy, slow resistance work and isometrics for short-term pain relief) is the standard approach, but you should treat specific programs with appropriate humility and work with a professional, especially for persistent pain.
Typical recovery shape
Tendinopathy typically improves over weeks to months of consistent, progressive loading — not days. Flare-ups during rehab are common and usually mean the load was advanced too fast. A professional can help calibrate the progression.