IS and Sports question

[LJ2b2c]

I'm looking for a good lensfor a 50D (only havethe kit lens today the 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6) to help with indoor Basketball pictures. I've been looking at the 85mm f1.8, the 100mm f2, and if I can find the money maybe even the 135mm f2. However none of these have IS such as the kit lens I'm used to. I've thought of getting a monopod to help, but my assumption has been that I will probably increasing my ISO to get higher shutter speeds, and therefore IS which helps with the camera motion will not be required??? Is it a fair assumption that above certain shutter speeds IS is not required?

[Daniel Browning]

Is it a fair assumption that above certain shutter speeds IS is not required?

Yes, but your mileage may vary. If you print small (4x6) and have steady hands, then IS will be of little benefit. But if you crop or make large prints, and/or you are less steady (especially as the night wears on), then IS may have a benefit even at 1/500.