Sat Feb 22 20:10:00 UTC 2025: **Clemson Tigers Face Crucial Test Against SMU in ACC Showdown**
DALLAS, TX – No. 17 Clemson (21-5, 13-2 ACC) faces a pivotal matchup against SMU (20-6, 11-4 ACC) on Saturday at Moody Coliseum. A win would significantly bolster Clemson’s chances of securing one of the four coveted double-byes in the upcoming ACC tournament. Currently tied for second in the conference standings, three more wins would guarantee Clemson avoids the early rounds of the tournament.
The game represents a Quadrant 1 matchup for both teams, a crucial factor in NCAA tournament seeding. Clemson, ranked 25th in the NET rankings, has a 3-2 record in Quadrant 1 games this season, while SMU (38th in the NET) is 0-4. SMU, a newcomer to the ACC, has emerged as a strong contender, winning six of their last seven games, including a recent victory over Notre Dame.
Clemson’s recent success stems from a lineup change implemented by coach Brad Brownell. The insertion of guard Dillon Hunter has resulted in a three-guard lineup that has produced three consecutive wins, averaging a 17.3-point margin of victory. This faster-paced approach has proven effective on both offense and defense.
SMU boasts a high-powered offense, averaging 82.7 points per game – the most in the ACC – thanks to six players scoring in double digits. However, their defense allows 71.4 points per game, placing them ninth in the conference.
A victory for Clemson is vital not only for tournament seeding but also for their aspirations of winning the ACC regular-season championship for the first time since 1990. A three-way tie with Duke and Louisville would necessitate a tiebreaker, and a Clemson win over SMU would be crucial in that scenario. The Greenville News predicts a 72-67 victory for Clemson, attributing it to their strong veteran defense. The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network.
First Piper 