CLEMSON – Brad Brownell‘s identity as a coach comes from his man-to-man defense, but Clemson is evolving to add new dynamics to the persona.

Fresh off their Thanksgiving meals, the Tigers took on Alcorn State and came out firing on all cylinders. Led by Joseph Girard III with 13 points, Clemson scored 48 points in the first half, a season-high.

Three-point shooting was the calling card as the Tigers made 8-14 from behind the arc. Five players made three’s in the half and Clemson took an 11-point lead into the break.

Brownell spoke postgame about the Tigers’ offensive success, and how the break didn’t phase this team. It was impressive on both sides to the Clemson coach as his squad and Alcorn State went back-and-forth.

“Had some high-level shot-making. Their guys made some tough shots. I thought our guys played very well offensively throughout the night. They changed defenses, pressed us a couple different ways…we only had seven turnovers I think, and had 26 assists so we’ve done a good job of sharing the ball. We’ve done it all year,” Brownell said.

This came right on time as Clemson struggled on offense, giving up over 50% shooting in the first half. College basketball schedules are a minefield, and the Tigers proving it can win in multiple ways is a great sign as ACC play inches closer.

Alcorn State dropped from 58% in the first half to 42% after the break. That’s more of what fans are used to with Clemson, but winning the track meet is always a plus.

“Very pleased with our offensive performance. Wish we would’ve guarded a little better but give Alcorn a lot of credit,” Brownell said.

It’s just Alcorn State, but the ante skyrockets Tuesday as the Tigers head down south to take on No. 17 Alabama in the ACC-SEC Challenge.this is the non-conference game that will test Clemson, and it can send a message to the nation with a victory.