Junior forward Ian Schieffelin has clinched the ACC’s Most Improved Player award for the 2023-2024 season.
The Ian Schieffelin student section, highlighted by their chef hats and known as “The Schieffs,” was in full effect for Clemson’s 90-75 win over Syracuse last Tuesday. The game was one of Schieffelin’s best of his junior season, as he tallied 16 points along with 16 rebounds while shooting a perfect 5-for-5 from the field, 5-for-5 on free throws and making his lone 3-point attempt.
Following last Tuesday’s and last Saturday’s performances, Schieffelin is averaging just under a double-double, accounting for 9.7 points and 9.6 rebounds per game, the third-most in the ACC. His numbers have surged across the board, averaging over twice as many rebounds and nearly doubling his points from the past season while shooting almost 58% from the field and 53% from behind the arc.
Entering his junior season, Schieffelin earned additional opportunities, transitioning into a full-time starter and experiencing a notable increase in playing time.
“We knew Ian was going to take another step as a player,” head coach Brad Brownell said after the game.
Listed at 6-foot-8 and 238 pounds, the athletic big man can use his size as well as any in the league.
When asked about his chances at receiving the award prior to the official announcement, Brownell stated that Schieffelin is “just a powerful player.”
“What a breakout year he’s had. I’m hopeful that he’s going to get Most Improved Player in the ACC,” Brownell said.
Schieffelin is the first Clemson player to win the award since the 2015-16 season when Jaron Blossomgame received the honor.
As Clemson aims for a winning streak in the ACC Tournament and a successful March Madness run, keep an eye on Schieffelin, who is poised to make a significant impact.
lois tooley • Apr 19, 2024 at 11:09 am
Great article