Kansas: Must-Know Rule Updates and Game-Changing Changes

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>High school basketball in Kansas is set to look a bit different this upcoming season. Several new rules, approved by KSHSAA this spring, are set to take effect and bring noticeable changes to the game. It will be interesting to see how teams adapt and how these updates influence the style of play across the state. We're also taking a look at a few additional changes that will roll out in the coming years.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>1. All teams will see a schedule change in the 2025–2026 season, with the regular season maximum increased to 23 games, up from the previous limit of 20.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As the number of games scheduled each season increases, it will be fascinating to observe how programs adapt their strategies around these additions. Coaches and athletic departments will have to make calculated decisions about non-conference opponents, rest periods, and travel logistics, all while maintaining competitive balance. The expanded schedule also opens the door for more compelling matchups that might not have occurred under a tighter calendar, potentially leading to new rivalries and marquee showdowns. Beyond logistics, the added games present valuable on-court benefits. Teams will have more opportunities to develop chemistry, experiment with rotations, and prepare for the intensity of postseason play. Facing a wider variety of opponents also exposes players to different playing styles and tactical approaches, ultimately making them more adaptable and resilient. In a competitive landscape, more games aren't just about quantity — they're a chance for growth, evaluation, and deeper competition.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>2. Following a trial year, a 35-second shot clock will now be implemented for the 6A, 5A, and 4A classifications in Kansas during both the regular season and postseason for the 2025–2026 season.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>3. The 35-second shot clock will be implemented in postseason play for 3A and 2A classifications beginning in the 2026–2027 season, while 1A-DI and 1A-DII will see the shot clock go into effect prior to the 2027–2028 season.</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Most would agree — the shot clock has been a positive addition to the game and aligns well with how basketball is played at the next level. During the regular season last year, its presence brought pace, flow, and a higher level of strategy to matchups across the state. However, the absence of the shot clock in the postseason created a noticeable contrast. Without it, the tempo of games often slowed dramatically, and teams employed tactics that were rarely — if ever — seen during the regular season, such as prolonged possessions or extreme stall strategies. This shift not only altered the rhythm of play but also raises questions about competitive consistency and player development. As we head into the new season, it will be important to closely monitor how postseason games — particularly in the larger classifications — are affected.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong>4. The quarterfinal round of the postseason will also see a change -- the top four seeds will have the option to host their games closer to home, provided the opposing team does not have to travel more than 250 miles.</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This feels like another no-brainer decision, as it rewards teams for strong regular-season performances by giving them a better opportunity heading into the postseason. While the system may not be perfect right away, it's a step in the right direction toward creating a more balanced and fair playoff structure. One of the biggest impacts could be the atmosphere — allowing higher-seeded teams to play games closer to home has the potential to create a true home-court advantage. That kind of environment could energize communities, boost attendance, and make the postseason feel even more meaningful. It'll be interesting to watch how programs respond to this shift and what kind of impact it has on the overall playoff experience.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em><strong>5. The state tournament format will also change, shifting to a three-game structure. Play will begin on Thursday or Friday, depending on whether it's an even or odd year and the classification involved.</strong></em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>6. The final major change approved is set for implementation in the 2026–2027 season and involves state tournament locations. For the first time, multiple classifications will play at the same venue. The format for 2026–2027 will be as follows:</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>6A: Koch Arena | Wichita, Kansas</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>5A: Koch Arena | Wichita, Kansas</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>4A: Hutchinson Sports Arena | Hutchinson, Kansas</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>3A: Hutchinson Sports Arena | Hutchinson, Kansas</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>2A: White Auditorium | Emporia, Kansas</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>1A-DI: United Wireless Arena | Dodge City, Kansas</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>1A-DII: White Auditorium | Emporia, Kansas </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list -->