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How to choose the right shot clocks for your facility

The sounds of buzzers are becoming more prevalent in basketball games across the country. Shot clocks, which are already a staple of the professional and collegiate game, are catching on at the high school level.

A ruling by the National Federation of State High School Associations in 2021 stated that a 35-second shot clock will be permitted with the start of the 2022 season in an effort to encourage standardization among state associations. Since that time, more states are continuing to adopt and utilize shot clocks as part of the game. If your state may be one of the next in line for adoption or if you are simply looking to add or upgrade shot clocks in your facility, regardless of the level of play, there are three things you should consider to help you make the best choice. Doing so may help you save time, eliminate stress, and make the process a smooth one that keeps your facility at the top of its game.

INFRASTRUCTURE

If your facility is in need of a new set of shot clocks, one of the first things to consider is whether now may be the best time to lock in upgrades for your other scoring equipment. Choosing to upgrade old scoreboards, video displays or scorers tables with your new shot clocks at the same time can not only fully integrate your equipment and create a seamless process for game-day operations, but also save time and reduce installation costs, preventing an installer from having to return a second time at a later date.

Regardless of the choice to upgrade all scoring equipment or simply add shot clocks, it all starts with location. Most shot clocks are either installed on a backboard or wall and it is vital that the location you choose for them can be seen by players and coaches from every location on the court. Discussing this upgrade with your coaches and factoring their input into your decision may be helpful in determining the most ideal location for installation.

Another part of the infrastructure to consider is support.

  • If you plan on mounting shot clocks above backboards that raise and lower, spend some time in the gym raising and lowering them to make sure there will not be any issues with your shot clocks contacting the backboard support structure when raised.
  • When mounting your shot clocks to a wall, be sure to specify the material the wall is made of so your installer can provide the proper anchors for installation.
  • Supply as many photos as possible to your scoreboard provider and installer who can make the best recommendations for you since the support structure often dictates where and how shot clocks are placed.

Every shot clock on the market requires a power source. Knowing the setup for power in your facility or what it would entail to provide power to any specific location for your shot clocks, will be key to ensuring a smooth installation process. After all, adding a set of shot clocks or any other upgrade should not be a hindrance or interfere with the game-day process.

FUNCTIONALITY FOR GAME-DAY

No matter the way your facility is structured, the scoring equipment provider you choose should have the capability and versatility to meet your preferences for game-day as a one-stop resource for all your scoring needs. When it comes to shot clocks, consider their visibility and functionality.

  • Do they offer single, double and triple-sided shot clocks that provide the most optimal viewing angle for players, coaches, officials and fans?
  • Are there options to show game time in addition to shot time?
  • If the shot clock provider you are considering is different than your scoreboard manufacturer, do they offer the ability to operate shot clocks independently of the scoreboard?

Nevco is proud to offer all of this and more with shot clocks that work in tandem with existing Nevco scoreboards and shot clocks that can operate independently with the scoreboard of another manufacturer in a size that provides the best fit for your gym. Nevco also provides accessories to help complete your game-day set-up such as End of Period Lights that mount to your backboard, providing clarity to officials and the hearing-impaired on a shot at the buzzer, or Locker Room Clocks to help events run efficiently.

QUALITY AND SERVICE

Before making your shot clock selection or any other kind of scoring equipment upgrade, it is important to consider the reputation of the company and the quality behind their products. Gain some insight and make the most informed decision to help eliminate any setbacks or frustration with the process.

  • Chat with other schools about their experience with different scoring equipment providers.
  • Check the quality and reliability of the product to see if it has all the proper agency approvals so you know it was made with the highest standards.
  • Learn about the reliability of the provider’s customer service from installation to follow-up. Is proper training provided to ensure you are comfortable operating your new equipment? Is there only one call you need to make if you have a question or issue that needs to be addressed?

The provider you choose should feel like part of your team through every step and a company that will be in your corner long after the equipment is installed. Knowing the answers to questions like these will give you confidence that your facility and game-day experience is in good hands.

GETTING STARTED

If you are interested in learning more about shot clocks and how to find the right shot clocks for your facility, check out our Shot Clock Buyer’s Guide here: https://info.nevco.com/NevcoShotClockQRG or get in touch with your local scoring and display consultant at 1.800.851.4040 or https://nevco.com/contact/.