The Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association voted Wednesday (April 23) to institute a 35-second shot in basketball for classes 6A-3A, beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.

West Metro coaches who responded to requests for comment from West Metro Sports reacted positively to the news.

Putnam City girls coach Porsche’ Young: “I believe it’s a game changer for the high school level. I am extremely excited about what it will do for the pace of the game. It’s going to be a great way for players that are able to make it to the next level be more prepared!”

Putnam City boys coach Brian Booker (who is moving over from Putnam City West): “I love it to be honest. We have played in tournaments in the past with a shot clock. It’s going to give the kids more freedom and the game just flows better as well.”

Putnam City West girls coach Kennedi Simien: “Long overdue! I think it’ll make HS basketball more exiting. More possessions in my case, no more stall ball!”

Putnam City North athletic director Ryan Wagner (former North boys basketball coach): “I voted yes. It will make the game better at our level, makes coaches coach and kids make plays. It should not affect 6A boys too much. Most teams play fast. You will also see more zone D strategy played since a shot has to go up in 35 seconds. And, you will get a certain amount of possession guaranteed to each night. Fun change.”

Putnam City North boys coach D.J. Lemons: “I love it!! The shot clock will improve the overall pace and excitement of the game. It helps the players to make quick decisions, read defenses faster and execute more precision. It creates a more balanced and competitive environment. Lastly, it brings overall excitement to the game.”

Western Heights boys coach Jonathan Bluitt: “Adding the 35-second shot clock to Oklahoma high school basketball is a great move for the game, the players, and the fans. It helps modernize high school basketball by aligning it more closely with the college and professional levels. Players will now develop better decision-making under pressure, improve their game tempo, and be forced to play both sides of the ball with intensity for the entire possession. Coaches will have to be more strategic, and games will have fewer stalling tactics — making it more exciting and competitive for everyone involved. Ultimately, it raises the standard and prepares student-athletes for the next level.  “

Bethany boys coach Brett Cannon: “I’m excited to see how it plays out! A ton of people are going to have to change their play and game management styles. We like to play fast and have more possessions in the first half but with a lead, we like to spread it out and take time off the clock in the fourth.

“It’s going to take a lot of adjustment but I think it’s good for the game of basketball in our state. Players will develop more because of it. Hopefully we can get one put in our gym this summer so we can begin preparing for it!”

Bethany girls coach Eric Sailer: “Well, I like the idea, every level above us has a shot clock. There are several states that use it as well.

“Arkansas has it, we went and played in a tournament there last year. I knew they had a shot clock, I was worried about how it would change the game for us. It didn’t.

“I like it, I think it will help with the flow of the game!”