The Clemson Tigers men's basketball team began their Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) schedule on a positive note, securing a narrow 64-61 triumph against the Syracuse Orange at the JMA Wireless Dome in New York.
Clemson, now boasting an 11-3 overall record and a 1-0 start in conference play, was propelled by forward RJ Godfrey's 14 points and Dillon Hunter's 10 points. This hard-earned win marks Clemson's fifth consecutive victory over Syracuse since February 2023, demonstrating a consistent dominance in this matchup.
The game's closing moments were filled with tension, as Carter Welling made one of two free throws with 14 seconds remaining, sealing Clemson's final score. Syracuse had a golden opportunity to force overtime after Welling's missed second free throw, but Donnie Freeman, their leading scorer, was unable to convert an open 3-pointer in the waning seconds. Welling then secured a crucial steal and advanced the ball to Jake Wahlin, allowing the Tigers to run out the clock and secure their victory. Clemson had established a significant lead earlier in the second half, reaching a 10-point advantage thanks to Butta Johnson's 3-pointer, which put them up 43-33 with 13:36 left. However, Syracuse, led by Freeman's game-high 18 points, mounted a comeback, narrowing the deficit to two points before Welling's decisive free throw. The Tigers displayed superior shooting, hitting 48% from the field compared to Syracuse's 40%, and managed to convert 4 of 16 attempts from beyond the arc, including two timely 3-pointers from Hunter.
Coach Brad Brownell's squad will next face the Pitt Panthers at the Petersen Events Center on Saturday, with tipoff scheduled for noon ET, broadcast on The CW. This early conference win sets a promising tone for Clemson's ACC campaign, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure and secure vital victories on the road.