Times Up For The Shot Clock Debate

 High School Sports could see a big change coming in New Jersey. The NJSIAA has made a big progression in the move to enforce a shot clock in lacrosse and basketball, however not all coaches agree. This shot clock would entail a 35 second shot clock for basketball and an 80 second shot clock for lacrosse. Coaches like Trenton boys basketball coach, Darryl Young added comments saying he’s “all in” adding that he and his staff, “use a shot clock in the summer league… a big part of our job is preparing our players for the next level.” Other coaches like West Windsor Plainsboro North boys basketball coach feel as if “we don’t see much of a stalling problem…” 

     Another argument has been brought up over the fact that schools will have to purchase and put in a shot clock, along with shot clock managing not being a stress free job. Schools often struggle to find enough volunteers to work the game clock and score board, so would adding another required worker really be the best decision? After four different proposals, the NJSIAA will be voting on the shot clock situation this May and if passed, will be in effect starting with the 2027-2028 season. Student Athlete, Vinny Ruta states, “I think it’s time for this change, the game needs to take the next step.” With 32 states enforcing shot clocks, New Jersey is slowly falling behind in the evolution of high school sports. What will the NJSIAA do? Only time will tell.