The finish line on the shot clock debate in New Jersey high school basketball came into view, but just barely. A Vote That Came Down to the Wire By a 170-166 margin Monday at Pines Manor, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association approved the long-debated implementation of a shot clock in high school basketball. After years of discussion, pushback and revisions, the rule will take effect in the 2027-28 season, bringing New Jersey in line with most of the country. It wasn’t overwhelming support. It wasn’t supposed to be. A Debate Years in the Making The narrow margin reflected just how divided the room still is. Coaches have been pushing for this change for years, frustrated by games that can grind to a halt late. Athletic directors, meanwhile, have had to think beyond the court — budgets, staffing, and logistics all factored into the hesitation. Both sides had a point. That’s why it took this long. What the Shot Clock Will Look Like When it does arrive, the rule will look familiar.…