Seconds to shoot: Local coaches react to new high school shot clock

Now, there will be a 35-second shot clock statewide on both varsity boys and girls games, the Alabama High School Athletic Association Central Board announced last Wednesday. "I think it will make the sport more engaging," said Lawrence ...

Apr. 22—There's going to be a big change coming to local high school basketball next season. Gone are the days of stalling for time and running out the clock.

Now, there will be a 35-second shot clock statewide on both varsity boys and girls games, the Alabama High School Athletic Association Central Board announced last Wednesday. "I think it will make the sport more engaging," said Lawrence County girls head coach Jenna Brewer. "It'll be more fun to watch because there's no longer any running out the clock.

" Now, instead of holding the ball at the end of close games, teams will be forced to shoot before the end of the shot clock, or it's a turnover. "Instead of fouling to get the ball back, you can decide whether you want to foul or defend," Hatton head coach Justin Henley said. "Because you've got a chance to get that rebound or get that stop because they have to play.