IHSA approves 35 second shot clock for high school basketball

The IHSA Board of Directors approved two recommendations brought forth by the IHSA Basketball Advisory Committee on June 11 2024.

A 35-second shot clock will be required for usage in varsity girls and boys basketball games beginning with the 2026-27 school year. Use of the shot clock for lower-level (freshman, sophomore, junior varsity) contests will be determined by conferences and via mutual agreement by competing teams in non-conference games.

“The IHSA has allowed the shot clock to be used in tournaments and shootouts the past two seasons, and the overwhelming feedback we have received from coaches is that it is time to embrace the shot clock in all varsity contests,” said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. “We believe the two-season lead time will provide our schools with ample opportunity to install the shot clocks and get comfortable with them from both a coaching and game administration perspective.”

South Beloit All-State basketball star Ross Robertson was asked recently about his thoughts on the new change coming in the 2026-27 school year. “I like it a lot better personally. It makes the game go faster and teams can’t just hold the ball if they are up late so I like that part too. I wish it was in place this year because the teams on our schedule a lot of them just hold the ball forever.” Ross mentioned that he has played with a shot clock in travel ball.

Additionally, the committee recommended a new state final time schedule that will ensure a two-day experience for all participating teams.

“It’s been fairly unanimous in the Illinois high school basketball community that moving the state tournament to a single-weekend format has been a success,” said Anderson. “Our coaches believe this new schedule will provide an even better experience for all the student-athletes, coaches, and fans. We look forward to seeing it play out when we celebrate America’s Original March Madness next winter.”

Thank you goes out to Ross Robertson and the IHSA for information in the story.

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