shot clock

American  

noun

1. a clock used in basketball games to limit to a specific length the time taken between shots.

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Etymology

Origin of shot clock

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

He pivoted around and through a double team and faded away deep in the shot clock, ready to sink Memphis’ hopes with his signature jump shot.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 1, 2025

Six golf balls, a shot clock with music blaring, and a WWE-style belt for a prize.

From BBC • Jul. 29, 2025

The biggest success of the opening session was the 40-second shot clock that helped keep the pace of the match high.

From BBC • Jan. 8, 2025

Up in the final few minutes, the Lakers tried to bleed the clock by in-bounding the ball with it running, the shot clock not yet triggered.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 2024

But Vondie grabs the rebound, a fresh twenty-four on the shot clock.

From "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander