From Chicago Sun-Times · · 1m 30s
Eight changes to high school basketball
Chicago high school basketball shifts as public league declines.
In brief
Chicago high school basketball shifts as public league declines. Chicago public high school teams no longer compete in state championships after 21 teams won titles in the past 16 years. Originally reported by Chicago Sun-Times.
Shot clock
The 35-second shot clock becomes official for the 2026-27 season, including the first IHSA state tournament.
Transfers
High school players transfer in unprecedented numbers, a trend not seen in decades.
Coaching hires
High schools no longer face pressure to hire top coaching talent, a shift from past practices.
Media coverage
Local newspapers reduced coverage of high school basketball by 15 to 20 years due to staff cuts.
Public League basketball
No Public League team has won a big-school state championship in three seasons.
Private-school basketball
Nine private schools played in big-school state championships since 2022, with five winning titles.
Prep schools raiding the state
Top Illinois high school players now leave for college after prep schools gain influence.
College recruiting
The Class of 2027 will have fewer than 15 Division I players, the lowest in state history.
State championship decline
Public League teams won state championships for 16 years before a three-year drought.
Talent shift
Illinois high school talent has dropped as players leave for college and private schools gain prominence.
Future impact
The decline in public school basketball could reshape high school sports for years to come.
The short version
Chicago public high school teams no longer compete in state championships after 21 teams won titles in the past 16 years.
