Despite a strong start from Clemson volleyball, the team faced a dominant ACC lineup, which led to a disappointing end of the season.
Before conference play, the Tigers only had three losses on the season, with eight wins. Some of these wins included Appalachian State, Wofford and Furman. The Tigers looked like they were on their way to a very successful season led by senior Aźyah Dailey and freshman Neea-Maria Joki.
The momentum came to a halt once Clemson began their ACC matchups, however. Currently, six ACC teams are ranked in the NCAA Top 25. The Tigers started off facing Pittsburgh, who are now the ACC champion. After the Panthers swept the Tigers, Clemson lost 14 straight games.
This losing streak ended when Boston College came to Clemson, and the Tigers pulled off a win in a five-set thriller. Then, they were also able to beat Syracuse at home for back-to-back ACC wins. The Tigers traveled to Boston College to grab their third and final ACC win before hosting North Carolina for their final game. The Tar Heels were able to sweep the Tigers, ending their season earlier than they would have liked.
Clemson will be losing two crucial pieces to their lineup: Dailey and libero Devan Taylor. With multiple redshirts ready to debut for the Tigers, Clemson hopes for a stronger season next year.