Basketball's Shot Clock and Time Rules

In many professional and international competitions, teams have 24 seconds to attempt a shot that hits the rim. If they fail, possession goes to the other team. College and other levels may use different times.

The shot clock resets when the ball hits the rim or when possession changes. In some situations, it resets to a shorter time, such as after an offensive rebound in competitions that use that rule.

Teams must advance the ball past the half-court line within a set time, typically 8 seconds in professional and international play.

Offensive players cannot stay in the key for more than three seconds. Some leagues also have a defensive three-second rule.

Timing rules encourage faster play and higher scoring.