The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) announced this week that it will introduce a 35‑second shot clock for all varsity boys and girls basketball games beginning with the 2026‑27 season.
The IHSA Board of Directors voted in June 2024 to adopt the change, finalizing a timeline that aligns with national trends toward faster‑paced play.
Implementation Timeline
Schools that wish to host varsity contests must have a fully functional shot clock installed on the playing surface, or they could be forced to forfeit the contest.
While the shot clock will be mandatory at the varsity level, the association has left its use optional for freshman, junior‑varsity and middle‑school competitions, allowing those leagues to decide based on resources.
If a backboard cannot accommodate a shot clock, the device must be mounted on the wall behind the basket and remain clearly visible to players and officials.
The implementation plan also includes a grace period for schools to secure funding and complete installations, with the IHSA promising guidance and possible assistance programs.
Coaches and athletic directors have expressed mixed reactions, citing both the excitement of a more dynamic game and concerns over the cost and logistics of retrofitting gyms.
The move reflects a broader push across high school sports to standardize equipment and improve safety, as officials argue that a shot clock reduces stalling tactics and encourages strategic shooting.