Clemson's basketball team made history in their first-ever game on Canadian soil, and the success has left Coach Brad Brownell contemplating the possibility of making this a regular occurrence. The Tigers improved to a flawless 9-0 record, a feat they haven't achieved since 2008, by defeating TCU 74-66 in the Discount Tire Hall of Fame Series held in Toronto on Saturday.
The victory also solidified Clemson's position as the last remaining undefeated team in the ACC, a remarkable achievement that has caught the attention of basketball enthusiasts. The triumph saw three Tigers players scoring in double figures, with graduate guard Joseph Girard leading the charge with 21 points and PJ Hall contributing 17. Girard, a transfer from Syracuse, is currently on a hot streak, averaging 18.3 points over the last six games and showcasing an impressive 47.7% accuracy from beyond the arc during that span.
The Horned Frogs, previously unbeaten at 7-0, were led by Emanuel Miller, who scored 16 points. Both Clemson and TCU were preseason picks to finish fifth in their respective conferences, making this clash a highly anticipated matchup.
Here are the key takeaways from the game:
1. Clemson's Defensive Prowess: The Tigers' victory was anchored in their outstanding defensive performance, holding TCU to a season-low 32.2% shooting from the field. Clemson limited the Horned Frogs to a mere 66 points, well below their season average. TCU came into the game with a reputation for a fast-paced offense, averaging 91.7 points per game, the second-best in the Big 12 and sixth nationally. Clemson's ability to stifle this potent offense was a testament to their defensive prowess.
2. Ian Schieffelin Shines: Junior forward Ian Schieffelin continued to be a catalyst for Clemson. Described by senior PJ Hall as the team's X factor, Schieffelin scored 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting. Over the past four games, he has accumulated 43 points while shooting an impressive 56.7% from the field. Schieffelin's versatility was on display, contributing not just in scoring but also leading the Tigers in rebounds with nine against the Horned Frogs and topping the team with five assists.
3. Chase Hunter's Struggles: Despite the team's success, not all Tigers had a standout performance. Chase Hunter, who has been a reliable scorer for Clemson, struggled against TCU. Averaging 11.8 points this season, Hunter went scoreless in this game, missing all seven of his shots, including an 0-for-4 effort from beyond the arc. Over his last three games, Hunter has faced challenges finding his range, making just 5-of-27 shots, including 1-of-13 from 3-point range, and turning the ball over six times.
Coach Brad Brownell's consideration of making the Canadian trip an annual tradition reflects the positive impact and success Clemson experienced in their historic game in Toronto. As the Tigers continue their impressive season, the Canadian connection might become a recurring theme in their pursuit of success.
