Clemson basketball secured a decisive 79-51 victory over Radford on Thursday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. This win marked another step forward for the Tigers, who now boast a 4-1 record early in the season. The game was highlighted by standout performances from several players, with Chauncey Wiggins leading the charge with 16 points. Dillon Hunter, brother of Chase Hunter, achieved a career-high 15 points, showcasing his growing influence on the court. Ian Schieffelin was just shy of a double-double, contributing 14 points and nine rebounds, while Chase Hunter added 10 points to the Tigers’ tally.
“Dillon Hunter is a guy who isn’t afraid to speak his mind. He’s got a light-hearted personality, but above all, he just loves to play. He brings excitement to practice almost every day, and that kind of energy is a huge positive. Especially during tough practices or hard film sessions, when things are challenging, his energy is contagious. When everyone else might just be trying to get through, Dillon brings the juice, and this week he really brought it.”
Brad Brownell
The Tigers wasted no time in asserting their dominance, building a double-digit lead early in the game. Their aggressive defense and efficient offense set the tone, limiting Radford to a mere 30.9 percent shooting from the floor. Clemson’s defensive strategy was particularly effective against Radford’s perimeter shooting, holding them to just 20 percent from beyond the arc (4-20). As the first half drew to a close, Chase Hunter delivered a buzzer-beating three-pointer, extending Clemson’s lead to 38-26 and providing a psychological edge heading into the locker room.
“Three-point defense was a major focus, and I thought we executed our plan well. We guarded the ball, fought through screens, and stayed detailed throughout the game. Even when they hit a few late threes, I’m really proud of how our guys played tonight.”
Brad Brownell
Clemson continued to apply pressure in the second half, pushing their lead to over 20 points midway through the period. The Tigers’ ability to capitalize on Radford’s mistakes was evident, as they scored 20 points off 11 turnovers. This relentless pursuit of points off turnovers was a testament to Clemson’s disciplined and opportunistic play-style. By the end of regulation, the Tigers had stretched their lead to a game-high 31 points, underscoring their superiority on both ends of the court.
Key Performances
Chauncey Wiggins’ 16-point performance was instrumental in Clemson’s victory. His ability to find and exploit gaps in Radford’s defense was crucial. Dillon Hunter’s career-high 15 points were a highlight, reflecting his growing confidence and skill as a key player for the Tigers. Ian Schieffelin’s near double-double performance demonstrated his versatility and importance to the team’s overall strategy. Clemson’s shooting from beyond the arc was another critical factor in their success. Four Tigers made multiple three-pointers, contributing to an impressive 47.8 percent shooting from three-point range. This long-range accuracy forced Radford to stretch their defense, opening up opportunities for Clemson to attack the basket and control the game’s tempo.
“My mindset coming into the game was key—knowing what I needed to do to attack the other team and staying sharp. Being on my P’s and Q’s and knowing my role definitely impacted how I played.”
Dillon Hunter on his career night
Defensively, Clemson’s strategy was to disrupt Radford’s rhythm and limit their scoring opportunities. By holding Radford to just 17 made field goals, the Tigers effectively neutralized their opponent’s offensive threats. This defensive prowess was a collective effort, with each player contributing to a cohesive and stifling defensive unit.
Looking Ahead: The Sunshine Slam
With this victory, Clemson sets its sights on the upcoming Sunshine Slam in Daytona Beach, Florida. Their next challenge will be against San Francisco, a game that promises to test the Tigers’ mettle further. Scheduled for a 6:30 p.m. tipoff on CBS Sports Network, this matchup will be an opportunity for Clemson to continue their winning momentum and refine their strategies against a new opponent.
The Tigers’ performance against Radford not only boosts their confidence but also serves as a benchmark for their potential this season. The contributions from players like Dillon Hunter and Chauncey Wiggins highlight the depth and talent within the team, suggesting a promising trajectory as the season progresses.
As Clemson prepares for the Sunshine Slam, their focus will be on maintaining their defensive intensity and offensive efficiency, key components that have defined their early success. In conclusion, Clemson’s 79-51 victory over Radford was a showcase of their growing capabilities and strategic acumen. With a blend of seasoned leadership and emerging talent, the Tigers are poised to make significant strides in the upcoming games, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
