With just over a minute left on Saturday, it looked like No. 16 Clemson was poised to secure another gritty win.
The Tigers had clawed their way back from behind for most of the game, and Chase Hunter’s clutch three-pointer with 1:04 to play put them ahead by five. But Memphis responded with big-time plays to force overtime, and Clemson couldn’t capitalize on key moments, falling 87-82 at Littlejohn Coliseum.
Hunter had a chance to seal the game in regulation with the score tied at 72. Dribbling near center court, he waited too long to make his move, leaving just four seconds to attack the basket. Forced into a deep three-pointer as time expired, the shot fell short.
“I should have driven to the rim and tried to draw a foul or get a better look,” Hunter admitted. “That was on me.”
In overtime, Hunter had another opportunity with Clemson trailing 85-82. He opted for a quick three-pointer rather than attacking the rim for a layup to extend the game. It didn’t fall, and Clemson’s hopes were dashed.
Hunter finished with 17 points but acknowledged costly mistakes in the game’s closing minutes, including a turnover after his late three-pointer. “I celebrated too much and lost focus,” he said. “I have to be better as a senior leader.”
The Tigers (9-2) now turn their attention to a rivalry showdown at South Carolina on Tuesday (7 p.m., SECN)