The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) sent out a letter to school administrators in May about a few changes that could affect some of the Seminole County schools.

In the letter, David Jackson wrote, Oklahoma high school basketball will experience a dramatic change beginning with the 2026-27 school year, as the use of a shot clock will be implemented in Classes 3A through 6A.

This decision comes after overwhelming support from coaches and administrators within these classifications.

This marks a pivotal step forward for high school basketball in Oklahoma, aligning with trends in other state associations. With the support and collaboration of the basketball community, the OSSAA aims to make this transition a success for players, coaches, and fans alike.

As with the shot clock decision, the OSSAA continues to emphasize the importance of gathering input from stakeholders as we prepare for other potential changes that could impact our Association.

In the coming weeks, we will conduct surveys to seek feedback on various policies, procedures and best practices. Coaches, voting delegates and administrators are strongly encouraged to participate in these surveys to ensure that diverse perspectives are considered. We understand that this time of year is extremely busy for everyone, but your feedback is very important as we work to meet the needs of our membership.

I pray for a strong finish to your 2025-26 school year – Jackson.

Also in an April OSSAA Board Meeting, the board approved experimental use of the shot clock for Classes 2A, A, B-I and B-II, as long as both schools mutually agree.

Key Details: Classes 6A-3A:

Mandatory 35-second shot clock for regular season and playoffs, starting in 2026-27.

Classes 2A, A, and B:

Optional shot clock for non-playoff games, requiring mutual agreement between participating schools and NFHS approval.

Game Situations:

In cases where a 6A-3A school plays a 2A-B school, the home team will decide whether to use the shot clock. If both teams are from 2A-B, they must agree to use it.

Rationale:

The decision to implement shot clocks was driven by a desire to speed up the game, address stalling tactics, and align with collegiate and professional basketball.

Historical Context:

The OSSAA had previously rejected shot clocks, but a 2023 vote saw a close margin, and recent discussions have favored the change.

Implementation Challenges:

Concerns exist regarding cost of equipment, finding qualified operators, and ensuring smooth game operations.

Statewide Impact: The change signifies a shift towards modernizing high school basketball in Oklahoma, with the potential to improve player development and the overall game experience.

Summertime Dead Period

The dead period will occur during the week in July that includes the 4th of July each year. The dead period will be nine (9) days in length and will begin the weekend preceding the 4th of July and the end the weekend following or including the 4th of July.

The dates for the dead period begin Saturday, June 28th and will run through Sunday July 6th.

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