There's no denying that basketball is a thrilling sport; that's why it's a sport that's loved by many all over the world. It is exciting that players will need to use their skills to beat the clock and score more points, but it's not as simple as that.
We've all seen this before in high school basketball games where teams are chasing their opponent's score with only two minutes left on the clock. Sometimes, these players will go through a repetitive process until the other team fouls, allowing your team to offense and win the game in the free-throw line.
One of the most important pieces of equipment that should be part of basketball games is a shot clock. You'd be surprised to know that the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) doesn't mandate shot clocks for high school basketball games, for both boys and girls.
Since only 10 US states use a shot clock of 30 or 35 seconds in high schools, there is talk of implementing shot clocks in more high school basketball systems.
What Does a Shot Clock Do?
Essentially, shot clocks are used to increase the pace of a basketball game, providing a defined number of seconds that the offense should possess a ball once a possession starts. In the NBA, it's 24 seconds, and for college basketball, it's 30 seconds.
The shot clock resets when the ball touches the rim or goes into the basket or when the possession shifts to the other team through a rebound, violation, or steal. If a player doesn't get a shot within this window, the shot-clock buzzer will go off, resulting in a turnover.
How Can This Be Implemented in High School Basketball?
Ideally, having a 35-second shot clock for boys' and girls' high school basketball games can be helpful. This is because it's enough time for players to run a set and set up an offense before taking a shot. With that, players shouldn't have any problem hitting a shot within 35 seconds.
Incorporating a shot clock in high school basketball systems can be extremely helpful in improving their athletic performance, agility, and skills.
Why Should We Implement Shot Clocks in High School Basketball?
There are many reasons high schools should start integrating shot clocks in their basketball system. Below are some of the pros of having shot clocks in basketball games:
1. Eliminates Stalling
Nothing is more exciting than watching two basketball teams go head to head, going back and forth, and battling it out until the end to get the shot and win the game.
Adding a shot clock in the system means that you'll prevent teams from holding on to the ball too long and stop stalling during the game. With that, players are pushed to think fast and play smart.
2. Faster Pace Offense
Long, slow, and boring basketball games are a pain to watch, but with a short clock, games will start to speed up, and the pace of the game will make players, coaches, and the audience feel more engaged.
3. Improve Athletic Performance
Incorporating a shot clock can make a game hard, but there's nothing wrong with that. In fact, it can even improve the skills and athletic performance of your players. Besides, basketball isn't supposed to be easy in the first place, right?
The shot clock can push players to play faster during the game, looking out for more opportunities for offense and defense, and playing smart, knowing they have a clock to beat. This can also train them should they want to further their basketball career in college or professionally.
The Bottom Line: The Shot Clock Can Elevate High School Basketball
It's time to add shot clocks to high school basketball systems and mold younger generations of basketball players. Shot clocks are no longer only for college basketball players and professionals; in fact, the younger you teach the players to be smart on their feet and mindful with their moves, the better players they become.
How Can We Help You?
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Quality Hoops have been in the sports industry for years, providing quality sports equipment that local organizations, schools, and playgrounds use. From basketball to a whole range of recreation sports — we've got you covered. Check out our equipment today!
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