The historic Jim Norick Arena in Oklahoma City has been a venue for state tournament basketball games since 1966. Despite plans for its demolition after this year’s championships, a longstanding tradition remains intact. Unlike many other states, Oklahoma does not utilize shot clocks, allowing teams to control the pace of the game by holding the ball for extended periods if they choose. This was evident in recent games where teams attempted significantly fewer shots in comparison to those from states with shot clocks.
While a majority of states are moving towards incorporating shot clocks by the 2026-27 season, Oklahoma remains one of the few holdouts. Advocates for shot clocks argue that they promote player development and prepare high school athletes for the next level of competition, such as college basketball where shot clocks are standard. The debate on whether shot clocks should be introduced in Oklahoma high school basketball continues, with some coaches highlighting the benefits of enhanced game management and increased possessions.
The discussion around shot clocks in high school basketball also evokes memories of historic games like Milan High School’s victory in 1954, immortalized in the film “Hoosiers.” The potential impact of shot clocks on game strategies and player performance is a subject of interest for both coaches and fans alike. As the conversation unfolds, the future of high school basketball in Oklahoma and the role of shot clocks in shaping the game remain topics of debate and consideration.
Woods expressed that her team approaches games with a sense of urgency, comparable to playing under a shot clock. Even in a close 58-47 victory over Bethany, the Trojanettes displayed aggression and took advantage of open shot opportunities. She emphasized the continuous progression of the women’s side of basketball and the desire to maintain a fast-paced style of play.
Fort Gibson girls coach, Scott Lowe, shared how implementing a shot clock during practices helped his team improve their mental toughness and execution on the court. He believes that utilizing a shot clock encourages players to move more efficiently and be proactive in their actions. While acknowledging that shot clocks may not always benefit teams holding large leads, Lowe advocates for their positive impact on the game and anticipates that Oklahoma will eventually adopt this practice.
Adkins acknowledged that transitioning to a shot clock system in Oklahoma will require adjustments from both players and coaches. He noted that while quicker shots may become more common, the discipline instilled in Oklahoma players will ensure a smooth adaptation to this change. Adkins expressed confidence in the state’s coaching standards and players’ fundamental skills, indicating that the implementation of shot clocks will be a positive step forward for the sport.
