The effects long distance running has on speed and quickness

[GiddyUp]

I'm a basketball and football player and rely on my speed and quickness on the field/court. I would like to cut my bodyfat % down, but I have heard that running reduces speed and quickness. Is this just another myth? I lift regularly and I eat fairly healthy. I dont get many sprint workouts in this time of the year, but somehow my speed maintains. If I started running would my speed and quickness reduce? If so what are other ways that are as effective as running in reducing bodyfat? Thank you for your help!

That is a new one on me, GiddyUp! Running reduces quickness? *shrug*
I'd run....it won't cause you any troubles on the court or field.

[Lil'Lifter]

During long distance training your body builds slow twitch muscle fibers. Sprinting uses quick twitch muscle fibers so where as long distance running will not help your speed it should not hurt you too much either.

[Cort]

Shouldn't hurt. Just do both. Long distance one day, short distance another.