Kansas high school basketball gets its first look at using the shot clock in games

Over 120 gyms across the state of Kansas are getting a new look this winter. That’s because the Kansas State High School Athletic Association has decided to bring shot clocks into play starting this season.

At the suggestion of the NFHS, the use of a 35-second shot clock was introduced. Accordingly Catch it KansasOnly 37 percent of schools have opted to implement a shot clock this season.

The KSHAA has stated that it will consider future use in regular seasons and postseasons.

“Being first and taking the storm in the contentious game of basketball and high school track and field,” said AVCTL Commissioner Keith Kinley, “we want to make sure we are prepared and do things right.”

The idea behind introducing the shot clock is to avoid stalling at the end of close games. This is especially true in important games in the postseason, where teams simply stand at center court with the ball while the clock runs out.

It also prepares players for the next level as the shot clock is used at all levels of college basketball.

“I think it’s a long time coming,” Bishop Carroll girls head coach Taylor Dugan said. “Hopefully girls continue to flow into the world of college basketball and prepare them for it.” We’ll really see it in later game scenarios.

“Now you can just play and it’s a lot more fun. So when you’re down, you get a chance, so I think that’s great.”

Iowa introduced the shot clock to high school play last season. It was presented with mixed feelings, especially as many schools had to find someone else to lead.

As someone who covered multiple games at all levels last year, there were only a handful of times that the shot clock even came into play during a game. It has helped create a more competitive environment in recent close games.