~ From the Braintrust ~
The WIAA Basketball Coaches Advisory Committee has revived plans that support implementation of a shot clock in high school basketball. To read more about the pros and cons, you can check out comments HERE
With all the fervor about why we should or should not have a shot clock, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of a shot clock in Wisconsin. Read further to learn what The Braintrust feels is the solution.
*** Let’s make that clear: EVERY school needs at least one referee or well-versed basketball expert working at the scorer’s table manning the shot clock. – The BrainTrust
Pros
- faster pace of play, more kids get involved in the game
- skill level will rise with faster pace of play
- teams can’t hold the ball and stall
- teams do not have to defend in the half court for as long
- increased use of strategy in closing minutes of close games
Cons
- teams lacking shooters who can get off their own shot as time winds down in shot clock
- at the end of the games if reserves are playing, skill development could be lacking in getting shots off
- Cost of installing shot clocks
- Cost of paying a shot clock operator, another adult well-versed in basketball and officiating
A cursory look at the shot clock pros and cons listed above would give the impression a shot clock makes total sense, a no-brainer many would say. Hold on, though… there is one con that cannot be overlooked, and it’s the biggest reason why Wisconsin SHOULD NOT implement a shot clock at this time.
NUMBER #1 Con: EVERY school will need to have AT LEAST one referee/knowledgeable basketball ‘expert’ working at the scorer’s table, responsible for resetting the shot clock after every shot AND rebound.
*** Let’s make that clear: EVERY school needs at least one referee or well-versed basketball expert working at the scorer’s table manning the shot clock. ***
At a time when we cannot find enough adults to work as basketball referees, shot clock proponents think we can simply implement a game feature that requires another referee?
Shot clock proponents need to first figure out how such a position will get staffed and paid for, then the shot clock has a chance to work.
Failing to do so will result in a fiasco, filled with controversy.
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Author: David Keech
David Keech is a retired teacher and works as a sportswriter, sports official and as an educational consultant. He has reported on amateur sports since 2011, known as 'KeechDaVoice.' David can be reached at [email protected]
