Basketball in the state of Pennsylvania will have a new look starting in 2028-29 as the PIAA on Wednesday passed a third, and final reading, to implement a 35-second shot clock for boys and girls varsity and junior varsity basketball games.

Warren and Eisenhower boys head coaches were pleased to hear the news.

“(I am) very glad to see (shot clocks) finally incorporated, “the Dragons’ Jeff Berdine said late Wednesday night. “I think it will really clean up the end of games and keep teams from holding the ball. This is long overdue. It allows for more pressing and zone defense combinations.”

Noted Knights head coach Ryan Mangini: “Definitely pro shot clock for a few reasons. The most important is end-of-game situations. Teams shouldn’t be able to hold the ball for minutes or force teams to pick them up at half court with three or four minutes left in a game.

“Also, (by) adding the shot clock, teams cannot dictate whether the other team has to pick them up at half court in the middle of the game. Teams are forced to try to score against the defense being played. The last point (is): it is just better for the overall pace of the game.”

More reaction to the PIAA’s decision will appear in Friday’s Times Observer.