Clemson Basketball: Late three pointer lifts Syracuse over the Tigers
The Clemson Basketball team has yet to secure a signature victory this season. While this years Syracuse team is far from dominant, the Orange are still one of the most storied programs in all of college basketball. Clemson came a hair away from defeating the Orange Tuesday night.. Ultimately I think Syracuse’s winning culture is what decided the game. Clemson had a chance to close down the stretch, but, unfamiliarity with winning lead to a heart breaking loss.
Early on against the Orange it appeared that Clemson would finally take down one of the ACC’s top dogs. The Tigers lead by as much as 12 points during the first half. Despite Clemson’s hot start, Syracuse was able to close out the first half on a 28-18 run. Going into halftime the Tigers clung to a 40-38 lead.
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Clemson’s loss illustrates the importance of talent. The Tigers outperformed Syracuse in nearly every statistical category including field goal percentage, steals, assists, blocks, and turnovers. The one area that Syracuse edged Clemson in was rebounding, the Orange grabbed 33 rebounds to Clemson’s 24.
The fact of the matter is, Clemson’s level of talent is not on the level of a Syracuse. Jaron Blossomgame gave a valiant effort in the Tigers loss, as has become normal for the senior forward. Blossomgame lead Clemson with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Brad Brownell’s group played well as a whole, with five different players scoring in double figures.
Clemson’s Donte Grantham connected on a mid-range jumper to put the Tigers up 81-79 with seven seconds left in regulation. Unfortunately for Clemson, Syracuse’s Tyus Battle wasn’t fond to the idea of losing. Battle sunk a dagger of a three pointer to put Brad Brownell’s Tigers away 82-81.
