IHSA adopts 35‑second shot clock for varsity basketball
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has voted to require a 35‑second shot clock for all varsity basketball games beginning with the 2026‑27 season, a move that aligns the state with the growing trend toward faster, more dynamic play.
Athletic directors at Quincy Notre Dame and Quincy High School have already overseen upgrades to their facilities, installing the digital timers and training staff to operate the new system smoothly.
Bill Connell, Kris Klingele and Craig Anderson, who lead the preparation efforts, said the schools are committed to meeting the IHSA’s deadline while ensuring that the rollout does not disrupt existing schedules.
Mandatory rollout and experimental options
While the shot clock will be mandatory for any school that hosts a varsity contest, the IHSA has left the option open for experimental use in select sub‑varsity tournaments, giving coaches a chance to adapt before full adoption.
A recent statewide survey of high school coaches revealed overwhelming support for the change, with the majority citing benefits to player development and game flow.
Lower‑level competitions, including junior varsity, sophomore and freshman games, will remain free of the shot clock, allowing those categories to continue using the traditional timing format.