For many fans across the state, the long wait is over.
The UIL passes the motion to approve a 35-second shot clock that will be rolled out in phases, starting no earlier in the 2028-29 season in the state.
Phase 1 will include 6A/5A schools receiving the game-changing device no earlier in the 2028-29 season. 4A & 3A will come into play no earlier in the 2030-31 season. 2A & 1A will receive it no earlier in 2032-33 with ample time to find proper personnel & secure funding for each respective schools.
Each phase will be monitored by the UIL to adapt to the change as phase seasons may be modified.
During the staggered implementation, the respective conferences not affected by the change will still remain a pilot program with optional use of the shot clock during non-district games, showcases and tournaments if coaches can come to an mutual agreement, which is the current method of optional use.
Home field advantage in playoffs
In addition to the shot clock, the playoffs will have a different feel next season as the UIL Legislative Council approved the proposal for home field advantage in the bi-district round of the playoffs in all conferences.
Currently, home field advantage is currently seen in 5A & 6A football but will soon be into play in all team sports, starting in 2027-28, with the team that holds the higher district finish hosting or travel to a neutral site, if a mutual agreement can be made by the respective coaches. With the division split, there can be instances where teams can have the same district finish. In this instance, a coin flip will be made where if a respective school can host or agree on a neutral site.
Mile restrictions up to 200 mile is additionally in play for this new playoff format. If the respective schools reached the restriction, the corresponding district executive committees will take a vote prior to the season to wave home-court advantage and play at a venue site, if passed by majority vote for both neighboring districts.
All passed rule changes from UIL Legislative Council must be passed by the Commissioner of Education.
