CLEMSON — The Clemson Tigers lit up Littlejohn Coliseum on Sunday as explosive scoring and fierce defense sparked an 85-68 victory over Boise State.

Clemson’s lockdown half-court defense allowed the Tigers to sustain a lead throughout the entire game (excluding one 90-second stretch in the first half) while holding Boise State’s leading scorer, Tyson Degenhart, to only seven points.

Clemson (4-0) also got 19 points from second-chance points and forced 11 turnovers. The Tigers outscored Boise State 18-9 in points off turnovers.

In addition to aggressive defense, the Tigers electrified the day with their 53.3 percent shooting from the 3-point line. Joseph Girard, a graduate transfer from Syracuse, produced 23 points, including three 3-pointers. Seniors Chase Hunter and P.J. Hall each added 14 points of their own in addition to five combined assists in the victory.

THE TAKEAWAY

With Sunday’s win, the Tigers silenced concerns that they cannot score consistently. 10 different players contributed with points for Clemson in the contest, and six players made three-pointers. 

The Tigers flashed their potential chemistry on offense, recording 15 assists throughout the game. Clemson exemplified its methodology of playing with grit while sharing the basketball.

Additionally, the Tigers showed how stifling their defense and rebounding can be, forcing 11 turnovers.

IMPLICATIONS

Clemson remains undefeated after four games, tied for the leading spot in the ACC.

The Tigers handed an experienced Boise State team (2-1) its first loss of the season, which serves as a good precursor to several veteran ACC teams Clemson faces later in the year.

MVP

While a few Clemson players were in double-digits Sunday, Girard shifted the game’s momentum individually, helping the Tigers run away with a 17-point lead in the second half. Girard accounted for 23 points, three assists and zero turnovers. His shots and assists in crucial moments changed the game for Clemson.

TIDBITS

Clemson never fell below  50 percent shooting from the field, three-point line or free throw line in the entirety of the game. 

Brownell continues to stick with an 11-man rotation early in the season. Every player on the floor Sunday forced a turnover, scored or secured a rebound.

UP NEXT

Clemson will try to keep its win streak going when the Alcorn State Braves come to town to take on the Tigers on Friday. The Braves and Tigers will tip off at 8 p.m.

To honor Clemson’s special senior class Dear Old Clemson is selling footballs signed by 7 of Clemson’s Avengers for only $100.  These limited edition footballs are signed by Thomas, Orhorhoro, Davis, Mascoll, Henry, Murphy and Williams.  Get one while supplies last.