UIL to Implement Major Changes to Texas High School Playoffs

The Texas University Interscholastic League Legislative Council met Tuesday, June 11 in Round Rock to make decisions on proposed rule changes in UIL academics, athletics, music and policy.

The most notable changes will be implemented in the playoff structure of several sports.

Playoff Changes for the Upcoming Season

According to the UIL website, the Legislative Council passed an amendment for split divisions in the postseason for volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball and baseball. Postseason for these sports, with a few minor exceptions, will closely resemble the current structure of high school football playoffs.

Volleyball (2A-6A), Softball/Baseball (2A-6A), Soccer (4A-6A), Basketball (1A-6A)

This change would allow for split divisions, based on enrollment numbers, in the postseason for 2A-6A volleyball, softball and baseball, 4A-6A soccer, and 1A-6A basketball. This change would create two state championship brackets for teams to advance through the postseason for these conferences in volleyball, softball, baseball, soccer and basketball.

The top four teams will advance to the playoffs, with the two advancing schools with the largest enrollments, as submitted in October 2023 bracketed into Division I, and the other two schools are bracketed into Division II, with both divisions playing for separate state championships.

Conference 1A Volleyball

The playoff structure will remain the same with the top three teams from each district advancing to the playoffs to compete for one state championship.

Conference 1A Softball and Baseball

The playoff structure will remain the same with the top two teams from each district advancing to the playoffs to compete for one state championship.

All schools in the conference would remain in their assigned district per the 2024-26 alignment. If approved by the Commissioner of Education, this new format would become effective as of August 1, 2024.

What About a Basketball Shot Clock?

That subject was brought to the table and the Standing Committee on Athletics authorized a survey to be conducted on this matter.

Basically, that means that basketball coaches throughout the state will be asked for their opinions about adding a shot clock. The general feeling is that the majority of coaches would be in favor of such an addition.

If this study shows that to be true, a shot clock could be introduced by the 2026-27 season.

Find out more about rule changes and considerations at this year's UIL session by clicking here.