The Clemson men’s basketball team shut down Syracuse, 86-72, on Wednesday night at Littlejohn Coliseum.

Here are some highs and lows from the game:

Paws up: Offensive excellence

The Tigers were lights out from behind the arc. Leading the charge was Chase Hunter, who connected 4-for-7 from deep. The Tigers’ long-range efficiency helped stretch Syracuse’s defense and create opportunities inside.
In the first half alone, Clemson shot an impressive 58% from the field and capitalized on turnovers to score 14 points. Hunter was a standout, contributing 18 points in the first half and connecting on 4-for-5 attempts from 3-point range.
Clemson also dominated in the paint, scoring 40 points — double the total managed by Syracuse. The Tigers’ balanced offensive attack proved to be a decisive factor in the victory.

Paws up: Defensive powerhouse

Clemson’s tenacious defense held Syracuse to just 72 points, including only 29 points in the first half, which allowed the team to take a large lead during the first half.

On top of that, Clemson’s defense forced 14 turnovers and recorded 10 steals, turning those into 19 points. This defensive intensity set the tone for the game and kept Syracuse off balance throughout.

Hunter, Jaeden Zackery and Jake Heidbreder had seven of those 10 total steals.

Paws down: Points from the line

While Clemson performed well overall, free throw shooting was a blemish. The Tigers shot 71% from the line, going 15-for-21, which is slightly below their season average.

In closer games, improving consistency at the stripe could make a significant difference.

Clemson hopes to continue this success on the road, as the Tigers head to Blacksburg, Virginia, to take on the Virginia Tech Hokies on Saturday.