CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – The Clemson Tigers men’s basketball team staged an electrifying second-half comeback to defeat Virginia 67-59 on Saturday afternoon, keeping their momentum strong as they approach the end of the regular season. Trailing by as many as 10 points in the second half, the Tigers unleashed a 20-2 run that turned the game on its head, propelling them to their eighth road win in conference play and their 24th overall victory of the season. With the win, Clemson (24-5, 16-2 ACC) is now just one victory shy of tying the school record for regular season wins, set at 25 in the 1986-87 season.
This victory marked a significant milestone for head coach Brad Brownell and his program. It was not only Clemson’s largest comeback of the season—surpassing their previous nine-point comeback against Duke on February 8—but also just their second win in Virginia since 2008. The Tigers’ impressive resilience in hostile territory adds another highlight to an already record-breaking season.
A Slow Start Gives Way to a Stellar Finish
Clemson’s performance in the first half was far from ideal. They struggled offensively, managing just 15 points in the game’s first 10 minutes. Virginia, a team known for its suffocating defense, capitalized on Clemson’s early struggles, building a lead that reached as high as eight points at one point. However, despite the offensive woes, the Tigers only trailed by five at halftime, 31-26. That slight deficit proved to be a manageable gap for a team that’s made a habit of thriving in second halves this season.
The Cavaliers began the second half with consecutive baskets that pushed their lead to a game-high 10 points. It seemed like Clemson’s chances of pulling off the comeback were dwindling, but the Tigers were far from finished. They were about to embark on a run that would define the game.
Zackery and Schieffelin Lead the Charge
Jaeden Zackery, who had been quiet in the first half, ignited the Tigers’ offensive surge with a 12-point performance during the game-changing run. Zackery, who finished with 12 points on five made field goals, played a critical role in dismantling Virginia’s defense. His scoring outburst helped Clemson seize control and shift the momentum in their favor.
However, it was Ian Schieffelin who emerged as the game’s standout performer. On his birthday, Schieffelin delivered a dominant double-double, posting 21 points and 13 rebounds. His rebounding presence was especially critical as the Tigers outmuscled Virginia on the glass, turning missed shots into second-chance opportunities that contributed to their surge. Schieffelin’s 13 rebounds allowed him to pass legends like Jaron Blossomgame and Elden Campbell to move into seventh place on Clemson’s all-time rebounding list.
Schieffelin’s scoring was just as pivotal. His combination of offensive efficiency and tenacity in the paint allowed Clemson to answer Virginia’s every challenge. His ability to stretch the floor and finish in the paint made it difficult for Virginia’s defense to contain him, and his rebounding prowess gave Clemson the extra possessions they needed to overcome the deficit.
Key Contributions from Del Jones and Viktor Lakhin
Del Jones was another key contributor off the bench, injecting life into Clemson’s offense during the second half. The freshman guard scored eight points, grabbed two rebounds, and dished out two assists while playing a huge role in the Tigers’ defensive effort. Jones’s energy and ability to disrupt Virginia’s rhythm helped swing the game in Clemson’s favor, earning him a game-high +20 in plus-minus.
Viktor Lakhin also provided valuable production, tallying 14 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. His all-around performance allowed Clemson to stay competitive, particularly when they needed someone to steady the ship after Virginia tried to push back in the second half. Lakhin’s versatility was a crucial component of Clemson’s offense, as he was able to stretch the floor, play in the post, and facilitate ball movement when necessary.
Virginia’s Struggles and Clemson’s Defensive Resolve
Virginia, typically known for their stifling defense, was unable to cope with Clemson’s offensive explosion. While the Cavaliers managed to score 37 points in the first half, they were limited to just 22 in the second half, as Clemson’s defense tightened and denied them easy looks. The Cavaliers’ struggles were compounded by their inability to generate consistent scoring in the paint, as the Tigers contested nearly every shot and forced Virginia into difficult looks.
Clemson’s defensive effort has been one of the team’s defining characteristics this season, and it was on full display during this game. After surrendering a 10-point lead early in the second half, the Tigers showed resilience and locked down the Cavaliers, making crucial stops when the game was on the line.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Clemson?
With the victory, Clemson not only solidified its position as one of the top teams in the ACC but also continued its historic run of success in conference play. The Tigers extended their program record for ACC wins in a season, now with 16, and improved to 14-2 in games decided by 10 points or more. These accomplishments showcase just how dominant Clemson has been this year, particularly in clutch moments when games are tight.
Next up, Clemson will head to Boston College on Wednesday, March 5, for their final road game of the regular season. The Tigers are now in striking distance of breaking their school record for regular-season wins, and with just a few games left, they will look to finish strong and enter postseason play with the best possible momentum.
For Virginia, this loss serves as a stark reminder of the challenges they will face in the ACC tournament. The Cavaliers have shown flashes of brilliance but will need to improve their consistency, particularly on the offensive end, if they hope to make a deep run in March.
As Clemson gears up for their next challenge, all eyes will be on the Tigers as they chase history and prepare for a potential run in the NCAA tournament. With Schieffelin and Zackery leading the charge, Clemson’s blend of talent, resilience, and composure makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the country.
