Something special is happening in Littlejohn Coliseum, and if you’re not paying attention, you’re missing out. Clemson women’s basketball is on the rise, and the charge is being led by first-year head coach Shawn Poppie.
In just a few months, he’s taken a program that has struggled for relevance and turned it into one of the most exciting underdog stories in college basketball this season.
Let’s not sugarcoat it: This program has had a tough run.
One NCAA Tournament appearance in the last two decades doesn’t exactly scream powerhouse, but Poppie’s arrival has brought a fresh energy, a clear vision and, most importantly, results.
The Tigers earned their first win over a ranked opponent in nearly two years by taking down No. 20 Cal.
Days later, they doubled down, outlasting Stanford in an overtime classic. A sweep of two Bay Area powerhouses is what puts a program on the map. That’s why it’s no surprise the team was named USBWA National Team of the Week after those two huge wins.
This isn’t just about a couple of big wins, though. It’s about the way Clemson is playing basketball. They’re gritty, fearless and unrelenting. They’re buying into Poppie’s philosophy, and it shows on the court.
The Tigers have taken ranked teams to the wire and proven they can hold their own in the ACC, starting conference play 3-1 for the first time in four seasons.
What makes this team so fun to watch? It’s the combination of underdog determination and undeniable talent.
A standout example is guard Loyal McQueen, the South Carolina native and graduate transfer from Alabama. McQueen has been a catalyst for Clemson’s success, averaging 14.5 points per game.
But her impact goes beyond her shots. McQueen also serves as the engine that keeps the team running. She ranks second in the ACC in assists, dishing out 5.5 per game and creating opportunities for her teammates to shine.
Players are stepping up in big moments, and the chemistry on the court is undeniable. They fight for every loose ball, every rebound and every possession with an intensity that’s impossible to ignore.
It’s not just basketball; It’s a spectacle—the kind of effort that gets fans out of their seats and shouting until their voices are gone.
The momentum is real, and so are the stakes. With Clemson ranked as a No. 10 seed and one of the “Last Four Byes” in the latest NCAA bracketology from Charlie Creme, every game matters.
A return to the tournament isn’t just a pipe dream anymore; it’s within reach. But here’s the thing: This team needs its fans, according to Poppie.
Littlejohn needs to be rocking, not just for men’s games but for women’s basketball, too. Tickets are cheap. The games are electric. What more could you ask for?
“Come be a Clemson women’s basketball fan, not just a fan of who we’re playing,” Poppie said.
This program is building something special, and it’s happening right now. Don’t wait until March to jump on the bandwagon. Get in the stands, cheer your heart out and be part of this incredible journey.
The Tigers are rising. Are you going to be there to see it?
