CLEMSON – January was a tough stretch for Clemson basketball as the defensive identity regressed and the Tigers lost five of eight games.

While Clemson regained its footing, it heavily came on the defensive end. Jack Clark hadn’t played in a game since Nov. when he suited up in late Jan. and eventually took over the starting role in Feb. for head coach Brad Brownell.

Since his return, the Tigers have jumped up 26 spots in defensive efficiency according to KenPom from No. 78 to No. 52. No performance was a greater example of Clark’s impact than Tuesday’s against Pittsburgh.

Clark drew the assignment of leading scorer Blake Hinson, who came in averaging 18.5 points and had scored 27 points in the first meeting. The difference was this time, Clark was on the floor for Clemson.

Hinson scored just six points on 2-9 shooting, just the third time he was held under double-digits this season. Brownell spoke about Clark’s impact postgame.

“He’s been a big help because of the rebounding. He had nine defensive rebounds and then his ability to switch and guard different people,” Brownell said. “His defense tonight was terrific and we’ve used him in a lot of different ways the common person wouldn’t know in terms of being able to switch and hems guarded point guards, he switched onto the center some at Georgia Tech. So yes, his versatility and his experience is vital. He’s an older guy that’s played a lot of games, been through the wars.”

As the season turns to March, Clark’s injection to the starting lineup has given Clemson life and now three-straight wins. This momentum is crucial for the Tigers as the door remains open for a top-four finish in the ACC.