Shot clock - Definition and Overview

A shot clock is a timer designed to increase the pace (and subsequently, the score) in a competitive sport. The sport most identified with the shot clock is basketball, although other sports have used one or are considering implementing one of their own to shorten the length of time needed to play the game to completion.

Basketball

In basketball, the shot clock counts down 24 seconds. Failure to attempt a shot within this time results in loss of possession.

In some games, 30 seconds is used, as was the case with international games before 2000.