Kentucky High School Basketball Introduces Shot Clock

Frankfort, Kentucky, September 27, 2025

News Summary

The KHSAA Board of Control has approved the introduction of a 35-second shot clock for high school basketball, effective from the 2027-28 season. This new regulation applies to both boys’ and girls’ varsity teams and aims to modernize the game, enhance pace, and reduce stalling tactics. While most schools previously showed disapproval of a shot clock, the new decision reflects a shift in mindset about competitiveness. Schools will need to prepare for financial implications of approximately $8,500 for required equipment and operational costs.

Frankfort, Kentucky – The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) Board of Control has officially approved the introduction of a 35-second shot clock for high school basketball, starting from the 2027-28 season. This decision was made with a decisive vote of 13 to 5, marking a significant shift in the state’s high school basketball regulations.

The shot clock will be mandatory for both boys’ and girls’ varsity teams. This change positions Kentucky alongside 33 other states that currently employ a shot clock in high school basketball games. The move follows extensive discussions and a successful trial run conducted during the Louisville Invitational Tournament.

Proponents of the shot clock believe it will modernize the game of basketball in Kentucky, aligning it more closely with national standards and improving the pace of play. The emphasis on a timed possession is expected to deter teams from employing stalling tactics and to encourage more dynamic offensive strategies.

Although this reform is viewed positively by many, there has been opposition in the past. The KHSAA previously conducted a survey in which most schools expressed their disapproval of the shot clock unless a nationwide mandate was established. The move to implement the shot clock despite earlier resistance illustrates a changing mindset about the game’s pace and competitiveness in Kentucky.

Concerns were raised regarding the financial implications of introducing the shot clock. Each school is expected to incur approximately $5,500 for the required equipment and an additional $3,000 in operational expenses per season. Smaller, rural schools may encounter particular challenges, including the need for proper training for personnel to operate the shot clock effectively.

Coaches have commented on the advantages of adding a shot clock, stating that it would better prepare student-athletes for the rigors of college-level basketball. Many players are already accustomed to shot clock rules due to their experiences in AAU and travel leagues, making the transition smoother.

KHSAA commissioner Julian Tackett has highlighted the necessity for schools to become educated on the new regulations and adapt to the incoming shot clock rules. The KHSAA is committed to providing clear guidelines for schools well in advance of the official implementation date to ensure a seamless transition.

In addition to the shot clock implementation, discussions during the KHSAA Board meeting touched on the potential for experimenting with a new super regional format in various sports to enhance participation and competitiveness among teams.

Background on the Shot Clock Discussion

Prior to this decision, the conversation around implementing a shot clock in Kentucky high school basketball had been ongoing for several years. The successful trial during the Louisville Invitational Tournament served as a pivotal moment, demonstrating the positive impact of a shot clock on the flow of the game and gaining traction among various basketball stakeholders.

Conclusion

The introduction of the 35-second shot clock reflects a significant development in the progression of Kentucky high school basketball. As the 2027-28 season approaches, schools will need to prepare for this change, ensuring that both athletes and staff are equipped to adapt to the new pace of play.

Key Features of the 35-Second Shot Clock Implementation

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Additional Resources

• WTVQ: Shot Clock Coming to High School Basketball in 2027
• 14 News: Shot Clock Coming to Kentucky HS Hoops in 2027-28 Season
• Kentucky.com: Kentucky High School Basketball Shot Clock Announcement
• Google Search: Kentucky High School Basketball Shot Clock
• WCPO: Kentucky High School Basketball Shot Clock

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