As Clemson’s 2024-25 season approaches, Brad Brownell is focused on integrating new players and meeting heightened expectations. After a shorter-than-usual offseason, the Tigers are back with a recharged lineup and a renewed sense of purpose.
Brownell made strategic moves in the transfer portal, adding talents like Jaeden Zackery, Christian Reeves, Myles Foster, and Viktor Lakhin. These fresh faces will join a team still energized by last season’s Elite Eight run. But this year, Brownell is leaning on veterans Chase Hunter and Ian Schieffelin to lead, setting a standard for the new arrivals and helping the team push even further.
Both Hunter and Schieffelin expressed their commitment to building on last year’s success, describing this season as another chance to make history. Brownell has challenged them to become vocal leaders, guiding their teammates both on and off the court. “It’s all about player-driven leadership,” Brownell explained. “If we’re constantly relying on coaches to push through challenges, it’s easy to get off track. We need our players to be the ones keeping each other focused.”
He emphasized the significance of building a strong team dynamic, saying that the support from Hunter and Schieffelin can help maintain the positive momentum. “When we hit tough stretches, it’s up to the players to stay resilient. If they step up and lead, we’ll be in good shape. But if they don’t, those challenges could linger.”
As the season kicks off, Brownell’s hope is that this team can overcome adversity through strong player leadership and continue to build on Clemson’s recent success.