Following a dominant performance in their season opener, the Clemson Tigers, 1–0, are set to return to action at Littlejohn Coliseum on Friday evening, where they will host the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs. The Tigers opened their 2025-26 campaign with an impressive all-around showing, displaying efficiency, balance and cohesion across the new-look lineup.
Clemson’s 88-point outing was highlighted by contributions from multiple players, as four Tigers reached double digits in scoring. The team shot an efficient 51% from the field, establishing an early tone of offensive rhythm and unselfish play.
Redshirt freshman Ace Buckner made an immediate impact in his collegiate debut, leading the Tigers with 18 points in just 20 minutes of action. Senior forward RJ Godfrey added experience and physicality to the lineup, finishing with 9 points and nine rebounds, just shy of a double-double in his return to Tigertown.
In a glimpse of what the future of men’s basketball could hold, head coach Brad Brownell praised his team’s composure and execution following the win. The performance demonstrated Clemson’s ability to combine veteran leadership with youthful energy, a key factor in what many expect to be a promising season for the program.
Meanwhile, Gardner-Webb, 0–1, enters Friday’s contest looking to bounce back from a season-opening loss to Minnesota. Junior transfer Julius Clark and freshman Spence Sims provided offensive spark, combining for 25 of Gardner-Webb’s 60 total points.
The team struggled to find rhythm offensively, shooting just 33% from the field, 19 of 57, and 32% from 3-point land, 6 of 19. Additionally, Minnesota outrebounded the Bulldogs 45-31, a margin that allowed the Golden Gophers to control second-chance opportunities and extend possessions.
For Clemson, the keys to maintaining momentum will center around defensive discipline, rebounding dominance and controlling the pace of play. Brownell’s squad will also look to continue building chemistry within its talented transfer class, which contributed both depth and energy in the season opener. If the Tigers can replicate their offensive efficiency and maintain their intensity on the defensive end, they will be well-positioned to secure a second consecutive home victory.
Tipoff is scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. at Littlejohn Coliseum, as Clemson looks to improve to 2-0 before heading into a challenging nonconference stretch.
