The Clemson vs South Carolina will write the next chapter in their storied basketball rivalry on Friday night when the two teams square off at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. on the SEC Network.
This will be the 173rd meeting all-time between the in-state foes. South Carolina holds a 92-81 edge in the series, but Clemson has dominated since the Gamecocks left the ACC in 1971, winning 39 of the last 59 matchups.
Last season, South Carolina pulled out a thrilling 60-58 victory on a game-winning shot. The Gamecocks will look to defend their home court again and extend their series lead. However, the Tigers have won 14 of their last 18 games against SEC opponents, including a 5-2 mark versus South Carolina.
Clemson enters the contest looking to bounce back after a tough 9-2 start to the season, which included a win over AP Top 5 Kentucky. The Tigers are led by Ian Schieffelin, who is averaging a double-double with 13.0 points and 12.0 rebounds to go along with 3.5 assists per game. Schieffelin’s rebounding average is on pace to be the highest by a Clemson player since 1990-91.
The backcourt is paced by Chase Hunter, who recently became the 46th 1,000-point scorer in program history and now has 1,404 career points. Hunter erupted for a career-high 30 points in a road loss at Boise State earlier this season. His younger brother Dillon is also coming off a career-best 15 point outing against Radford.
South Carolina also boasts an experienced roster featuring several key returners. The Gamecocks will rely on their balanced scoring attack and ability to control the glass. Expect a raucous atmosphere from the Carolina faithful.
While football tends to dominate the headlines when these two schools meet, the hardwood edition of the Palmetto rivalry never lacks intensity or drama. Both teams understand the importance of this game to their passionate fanbases.
“The USC game is big—it’s our next game, a rivalry, and on the road,” Clemson head coach Brad Brownell said. “After a tough loss , our locker room isn’t in a great place, but basketball demands quick turnarounds. We’ve got to regroup, bring energy, and execute at a high level to win.”
Brad Brownell
Brownell has the Tigers rolling in his 15th season at the helm. He recently signed a contract extension through 2029 and is the winningest coach in school history with 267 victories. Under his watch, Clemson has reached the NCAA Tournament four times, including three of the last seven years highlighted by a Sweet 16 in 2018 and Elite Eight run last season.
The stage is set for another compelling clash between the Tigers and Gamecocks. Bragging rights are on the line as Clemson and South Carolina renew one of college basketball’s most underrated rivalries.
