Basketball Shot Clock Rules

Shot Clock Duration by League

When Does the Shot Clock Reset?

The shot clock resets to full time when:

• Change of possession (defensive rebound, steal, turnover)
• Ball hits the rim on a shot attempt
• Defensive foul
• Jump ball awarded to offense
• Start of a new period

The shot clock resets to a reduced time (14 or 20 seconds) when:

• Offensive rebound after shot hits rim
• Ball goes out of bounds off the defense (in some leagues)
• Loose ball foul on defense when under reset threshold

Shot Clock Violations

A shot clock violation occurs when the clock reaches zero before the ball leaves the shooter's hand and hits the rim. Consequences:

• Turnover - opposing team gets possession
• Inbound at the sideline nearest to where violation occurred
• If shot is in the air when buzzer sounds, it counts if it goes in (NBA/FIBA)

High School Shot Clock by State

The NFHS made the shot clock optional in 2022, leaving adoption to individual state associations. As of 2024, 38 states have adopted or are implementing a shot clock.

Table shows select states. Contact your state athletic association for current rules.

Related Basketball Rules

• Possession Arrow / Alternating Possession
• Use the Shot Clock Tool
• Basketball Scoreboard with Shot Clock