The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) Board of Directors has approved the allowance for a 35-second shot clock for specific varsity events.
The decision came at the MSHSAA board meeting on June 13, and a release from MSHSAA states “The shot clock can only be used in boys and girls basketball regular season varsity tournaments and shootout-style events involving MSHSAA member schools, with prior approval.”
The change does not apply to MSHSAA playoff games, including the state tournament.
Tournament of Champions Tournament Director Josh Scott tells KY3 Sports that the T of C does plan to apply for permission to use the shot clock during future Tournament of Champions events.
Scott says there has not been any decision made about the Blue & Gold or Pink & White Tournaments.
The MSHSAA release includes the following information about the shot clock allowance process.
The minimum requirements and approval process are in the Shot Clock Allowance Process document located on the MSHSAA website. Specific information about the use of the shot clock is in the Shot Clock Guidelines for Use document located on the MSHSAA website.
MSHSAA’s website states the following regarding shot clock allowance.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR HOST VENUE
• Shot clocks must be PERMANENTLY mounted and installed.
• All games must be officiated by a 3-person crew.
• Upon approval, all participating schools and officials must be notified and provided this document, which
includes the guidelines for the use of the shot clock.
• The shot clock must be operated by a dedicated individual at the score table. Shot clock operators may not have
another responsibility during the game.
• Shootout-style events must have a minimum of eight participating teams and four total games played on one
day.
REQUEST FOR APPROVAL: Host schools can request approval (a minimum of 10 days prior to the event) for the use of the
the shot clock in qualifying events by sending an email to Doug Fessler (doug@mshsaa.org) which includes:
• Name, date(s), and type of the event (tournament or shootout)
• Number of participating schools and contests, by gender
• Confirmation of a qualifying shot clock and a description of its location
• Confirmation that all participating schools and officials will be notified that approval of the 35-second shot clock will
be used for the event and provided guidelines. This document can be accessed on the MSHSAA website.
• Confirm the use of a 3-person officiating crew on each game. *NOTE – Officials will not be trained in the shot clock
procedures, but they will be given guidance on use & mechanics.
• Confirm the use of a dedicated shot clock operator
Approval will be sent to the AD through email a minimum of one week prior to the event. Use of a shot clock in nonapproved events/games will result in forfeiture by both schools and a penalty of a $500 fine for the host school.
