AHSAA Approves Shot Clock for Basketball Beginning 2026-27 Season

The Alabama High School Athletic Association Central Board of Control has approved the use of a shot clock for basketball beginning with the 2026-27 season.

The board voted to implement a 35-second shot clock for both boys’ and girls’ programs, marking a significant change for high school basketball in Alabama.

In addition to the shot clock decision, the board elected Kim Kiel of Pelham City Schools as the first female president in AHSAA history. She currently serves as assistant superintendent and has previously worked as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and principal.

Officials also approved extending the “mercy rule” to state finals basketball games, allowing for a running clock when a team leads by 30 points in the fourth quarter.

Other changes approved by the board include updates to cross country, swimming, and wrestling regulations, along with adjustments to qualifying standards and competition formats.

The AHSAA Legislative Council also ratified three bylaw proposals, including requirements related to staff eligibility for committee roles, identification of transfer student-athletes, and increased transparency in reporting voting results.

The new board leadership will officially begin their terms in July.