Timing toolsUpdated 2026-06-304 min read
Setting up a basketball game clock
Plan periods, breaks, timeouts, overtime, and the shot clock.
A basketball clock setup needs more than a countdown. Decide the number and length of periods, breaks, timeouts, overtime, and whether to use a shot clock before the game starts.
Choose the game format
- Official competitions commonly use four periods, but period length depends on the league.
- A casual event might use four 8–10 minute periods or two 10–15 minute halves.
- Agree on whether the clock stops for each whistle or runs continuously except for selected situations.
Shot clock and timeouts
A 24-second shot clock is common in formal play. Some rules call for a 14-second or 24-second reset after particular possession changes or stoppages. If the event uses a shot clock, assign someone to operate it. Stop the game clock during a timeout and time the timeout separately.
Start scoring with iScoreboard
Set up a match, keep score, and show the result on another screen.
Open the scoreboardFrequently asked questions
Does a casual match need a shot clock?
Not necessarily. Agree on the rule before play starts.
Should the game clock stop for a timeout?
Usually yes; track the timeout separately.