Texas public schools have signed up to modernize their high school basketball game, 35 seconds at a time.
On Monday, the University Interscholastic League (UIL) approved a 35-second shot clock for all Class 5A and 6A games beginning in the 2028-29 school year. Texas joins 35 other states in adopting a shot clock.
"It has taken a while, but I think the UIL legislative council took deliberate steps to make sure that once we did get it, everything will be implemented the correct way," Texas Association of Basketball Coaches executive director Johnnie B. "Hawk" Carter said to Chron. "We've been working on this for some time now, and I'm very excited about it."
Implementing a shot clock in high school basketball games centers on increasing game pace while navigating strategic nuances and operational challenges. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations, many state athletic associations and basketball white papers have analyzed the change, with a consensus that a shot clock dramatically shifts the sport's ecosystem.
"It's a game changer," said a Dallas ISD varsity coach, who asked to remain anonymous. "Coaches have to coach now."
The legislative council gave schools in both classes the option to use a shot clock as early as the 2027-28 season. However, the shot clock will become mandatory at the same time as the UIL's next class realignment. According to Carter, approximately 70 percent of coaches surveyed were in favor of shot clock implementation. Most opponents came from inner-city and smaller schools.
Because of those concerns, the legislative council decided that Class 3A and 4A schools could implement a shot clock in 2030-31, with Class 1A and 2A having the same choice in 2032-33. However, the council stated that the timing and statewide implementation will be monitored, which could lead to further changes.
Adding a shot clock also requires extra personnel to help manage the game.
"That means you have to add an adult for your game crew," said Houston Lamar head coach Jerry VanDeusen. "You need an adult working the clock, and an adult doing the scorebook if you are at home. Plus, you have the expense of putting in the shot clock itself."
Districts typically hire staff to manage table duties like the clock and scorebook, but cash-strapped districts have to rely on volunteers.
"A lot of inner-city schools are not able to afford additional expenditures for home games," said former Houston Cesar E. Chavez coach Len Krieger. "Oftentimes, teams have to rely on children in our program: sub-varsity players, trainers, managers that we train to work the clock and books."
In addition, installing a basketball shot clock costs districts, on average, $4,500 for two shot clocks in a gymnasium, plus wiring and installation labor.
"That's why I think the UIL and the legislature [did a] gradual implementation of it and not just force it on everyone," Carter said.
Texas is already known for producing some of the sport's best players, with many moving on to play collegiately and professionally. However, the shot clock should improve the quality of high school games just a bit more.
"What a change and impact on high school basketball," said Dallas South Oak Cliff head coach Antoine Thompson. "This is the best opportunity for us to get our kids back from the private and charter sectors. We are going to get better with this."
High school hoops across the state are set to tip off in November.
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This article originally published at Texas high school hoops gets a shot clock. Coaches are excited and worried..