Their ticket to the Elite 8 has been punched. The Clemson Tigers were able to fend off a blue blood program to return to the Elite 8 round for the first time since 1980.
Head coach Brad Brownell came into the season on the proverbial hot seat but this showing has certainly removed any thought of replacing him as the man in charge of the Tigers basketball program.
Guard Chase Hunter led the way for Clemson wth 18 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. Forward PJ Hall was once again key for the team’s success with 17 points and eight rebounds. The other forward, Ian Scheffelin added another 14 points as the Tigers earned the improbable victory.
On Arizona’s side, Caleb Love, Oumar Ballo, and Jaden Bradley combined to pour in 46 of the Wildcats’ 72 points. Bradley did so coming off the bench.It wasn’t enough as the University of Arizona missed out on the Elite 8 once again but this time they made it past the opening weekend unlike last season.
Check out these images from the Clemson game ahead of their matchup with Alabama on Saturday.