Texas considers shot clock for high school basketball

Texas could be the next state to implement a shot clock in high school basketball, and the possible change has received a mixed reaction from coaches, athletic directors and athletes.

Texas' athletic association will consider adding a 35-second shot clock in prep basketball.
Texas’ athletic association will consider adding a 35-second shot clock in prep basketball.

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) will discuss the proposal today, but many seem confident it won’t have much support. Currently, eight states use a shot clock in prep basketball.

From the Beaumont Enterprise:

“I think it’s needed,” Silsbee senior forward Michael McCain said. “It’ll help us (the players) have the feeling that college and NBA basketball has. It’ll help get people who want to play at the next level, ready for the next level.”

“You shouldn’t be able to hold the ball the whole game,” Kountze senior guard Teran Stanford said.

East Chambers’ coach Todd Sutherland used the “slowdown” strategy to win a state title with Hardin-Jefferson in 2007.

But that’s not why he believes the new rule is a bad idea. He said it comes down to whether the UIL could correctly implement a shot clock across the state.

“I think for some schools, it would be tough finding someone to run it properly,” Sutherland said. “You also have to factor in adding shot clock equipment to every gym in the state. It could be an issue for schools financially.”

Last year, we polled readers and 79% said high school basketball needs a shot clock. Supporters said they’re tired of stall tactics and slow play, while opponents said the change is expensive and could widen the competitive gap between big and small schools.

Texas’ proposal specifically includes a 35-second shot clock, according to the Beaumont Enterprise. College basketball last year switched from a 35- to 30-second shot clock.

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