Fresh off last year’s Elite Eight run and a convincing opening-night victory, Clemson looks to continue its momentum Friday, when the Tigers host the Saint Francis Red Flash.The Tigers, a No. 6 seed in last season’s NCAA Tournament, advanced as far as they’ve been in the “Big Dance” since 1980. Coach Brad Brownell’s team returns three key members, along with several transfers who have already contributed.Last season’s most improved player in the ACC, Ian Schieffelin, is back for his senior year, alongside sixth-year point guard Chase Hunter. Both players from last year’s 24-win team were named second-team preseason All-ACC members this season. Chauncey Wiggins, who appeared in all 36 games in 2023-24, also returns to the Tigers.Clemson won its season opener Monday, topping visiting Charleston Southern, 91-64. Hunter and Illinois State transfer Myles Foster each paced the Tigers with 17 points. Cincinnati transfer Viktor Lakhin added 12 points, while former Air Force sharpshooter Jake Heidbreder chipped in nine points on three 3-pointers.”Really good opening performance,” Brownell said. “Especially defensively, I thought our guys did a really good job of doing what we practiced leading into the game. I think Chase Hunter did a really good job tonight of trying to get other guys involved. He probably even passed up a shot or two for himself. … He played like an older player with poise. He was making the right play, finding his teammates and encouraging other guys.”Next up is the Tigers’ first meeting with Saint Francis.
Clemson out to build on solid opener with St. Francis in town
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