The Memphis Tigers (7-2) are set to face the 16th-ranked Clemson Tigers (9-1) on Saturday in a rematch of last year’s nail-biter, where Memphis edged out Clemson 79-77. This time, the scene shifts to Clemson, presenting Memphis with an uphill battle against one of the nation’s best defensive teams.
For Memphis, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Coming off a disappointing 85-72 home loss to Arkansas State, the Tigers have dropped out of the Top 25 rankings and desperately need a resume-enhancing win. With four games left in their non-conference slate—against Clemson, Mississippi State, Virginia, and Ole Miss—head coach Penny Hardaway knows these matchups are critical for Memphis’ postseason aspirations.
“They do not respect one team in our conference, which is unfortunate,” Hardaway said, emphasizing the lack of respect the American Athletic Conference garners nationally. “If you just win our conference, you’ll be 8, 9 or lower. That’s not what we want. We want a 4-seed or higher to put us in position where we can have a couple games – that’s how most of these teams get to the Sweet 16 every year.”
With that in mind, Saturday’s game against Clemson is an opportunity Memphis cannot afford to squander.
Related: Analyzing Memphis’ Slow Starts: A Season Trend or Growing Pains?
Clemson Tigers Scouting Report
Season Overview
The Clemson Tigers have been on a tear to start the 2024-2025 season, compiling a 9-1 record that includes a marquee victory over fourth-ranked Kentucky (70-66). Clemson has also notched wins over solid opponents such as San Francisco and Penn State, with their lone loss coming against Boise State. Head coach Brad Brownell has built a team that excels on both ends of the court, ranking sixth in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency and boasting a balanced offensive attack.
Key Players
- Chase Hunter (Guard): The senior guard leads Clemson in scoring, averaging 15.9 points per game on an efficient 47% shooting. He is also the team’s best three-point shooter, connecting on 39% of his attempts. Hunter is the engine of Clemson’s offense and will be a focal point for Memphis’ defense.
- Ian Schieffelin (Forward): Schieffelin is a double-double machine, averaging 12.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. His ability to control the glass and facilitate makes him a unique threat in the paint and on the perimeter.
- Jaeden Zackery (Guard): A versatile backcourt presence, Zackery contributes on both ends with his defensive intensity and timely scoring.
- Chauncey Wiggins (Forward): Wiggins adds scoring versatility as a forward who can stretch the floor.
- Viktor Lakhin (Center): The 6’11” big man anchors Clemson’s interior defense, providing rim protection and efficient scoring in the post.
Team Stats
- Offense:
- Points per game: 77.0 (105th)
- Effective FG%: 53.2% (94th)
- Three-point percentage: 38.0% (44th)
- Defense:
- Points allowed per game: 62.4 (18th)
- Opponent three-point percentage: 29.9% (63rd)
- Adjusted defensive efficiency: 6th nationally
Clemson’s defense has been the cornerstone of their success, holding opponents to under 63 points per game while forcing tough shots. Their ability to dominate the boards and limit second-chance opportunities makes them a formidable challenge for Memphis.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Chase Hunter vs. Tyrese Hunter:
The battle of the Hunters will be pivotal. Memphis’ Tyrese Hunter has been a consistent scorer for the Tigers, and his ability to contain Clemson’s Chase Hunter on defense could swing the game in Memphis’ favor. - Ian Schieffelin vs. Memphis’ Frontcourt:
Memphis big men Dain Dainja and Moussa Cissé will need to neutralize Schieffelin’s impact on the glass. Schieffelin’s rebounding and passing ability will test Memphis’ defensive discipline. - Three-Point Shooting:
Clemson’s 38% accuracy from beyond the arc versus Memphis’ perimeter defense will be a key factor. Memphis must close out on shooters like Chase Hunter and Chauncey Wiggins to avoid giving up easy looks. - Bench Production:
Memphis will need significant contributions from their bench, particularly Dainja, who has been a spark plug in recent games. Clemson’s depth could exploit Memphis if their starters struggle or face foul trouble.
Keys to Victory for Memphis
- Start Strong:
Memphis cannot afford another sluggish start like they had against Arkansas State. Establishing rhythm early and avoiding double-digit deficits will be crucial. - Limit Turnovers:
Turnovers have been an Achilles’ heel for Memphis this season. Protecting the ball against a defensively elite team like Clemson will be critical to their success. - Dominate the Paint:
Memphis must use its size advantage to control the paint on both court ends. Points in the paint and defensive rebounding will be essential. - Defend the Perimeter:
Clemson has multiple capable shooters who can stretch the floor. Tight defensive rotations and closeouts will be key to limiting their three-point opportunities.
Score Prediction
This game has all the makings of a hard-fought battle. Clemson’s defense and home-court advantage make them the favorites, but Memphis’ resilience and urgency to bounce back from their Arkansas State loss give them a fighting chance. Expect a close game that comes down to the wire.
Prediction: Memphis 85, Clemson 83
Memphis will need their stars to shine and their role players to step up, but if they execute their game plan and avoid critical mistakes, they could leave Clemson with a statement win.
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