Games in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) end differently than traditional FIBA or NBA basketball games.
The CEBL has adopted Target Score Time, also known as the Elam Ending, which means all games end with a game-winning basketball. At the first stoppage of play with less than four minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, officials turn the clock off (shot clock remains). Instead of playing to the end of a timer, the teams will now play to a target score. That score is determined by adding nine points to the score of the team in the lead at this juncture.
For example, if a team is leading 80-70 when the first stoppage of play occurs with under four minutes left, the target score is 89. Whichever team gets to 89 first will win the game. This format increases the ability for comebacks and increases the pace of play.
Target Score Time in the CEBL is presented by Guru energy drinks.
