Shot Clock Vs High School Basketball Essay

“It has been debated, analyzed, proposed and shot down by the National Federation High School Basketball Rules Committee (Obert np).” Each year, the call for a shot clock is evident during high school basketball games. Many people believe that the shot clock would improve the game; nevertheless others maintain the belief that if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. While the game of basketball is constantly evolving, it is essential that the rules evolve as well. Throughout history we can see the rules of basketball have evolved as the game has evolved. The advantages of adding a shot clock to the game far outweigh the disadvantages. Although there are some drawbacks, adding a shot clock to the high school basketball game is a necessity for the future and well-being of the game. As stated above, the rules of basketball have evolved through time; consequently, it has shaped the game of basketball as we know it today. When James Naismith invented basketball in 1891, he declared 13 rules for the game (Hooptactics np). While many have been altered or eliminated, some of the original rules are still intact today. In the past, the game …show more content…
The most obvious disadvantage being shot clocks cost money, and they would have to be installed in every high school gym across the country. The average cost of a basic set of shot clocks is around $2,000, and if you wanted a more advanced set that would attach to the scoreboard, the cost might increase to $5,000 (Blackledge np). Installation, wiring, and an additional worker at the scorer’s table to manage the clock would further compound costs. The people running the shot clock must be trained and learn the specific rules of the shot clock. When that person makes a mistake, and mistakes will be made, that slows down the game. A malfunctioning shot clock could also delay the game that is being