A decision that felt inevitable is now causing a Clemson program that reached the Elite Eight to lose some respect.

The Tigers lost first-team All-ACC center PJ Hall to the NBA Draft this week. It was the most likely decision, and Clemson had the insurance for it.

Still, the Tigers have lost some momentum. CBS Sports released its college basketball rankings, and Oregon replaced Clemson in the top 25.

In the previous 17 versions of the Top 25 And 1, I’ve had Brad Brownell’s Tigers ranked based on the idea that PJ Hall would also use his fifth year of eligibility to play one more season in the ACC. But, on Friday, the all-league performer announced on social media that his intention is to remain in the 2024 NBA Draft, which is why the Tigers have been removed from Version 18.0 of the Top 25 And 1.

They’ve been replaced by Oregon.

While the loss of Hall is obviously a big deal, Viktor Lakhin and Ian Schieffelin are an impressive front court taking over his duties. Should the Tigers add any other help through the portal, there would be no worry about the depth.

Incoming freshman Dallas Thomas will also play a role. It’s odd but understandable for Clemson to fall out, especially given the looming possibility Chase Hunter elects to return.

The Tigers were an underdog last season and delivered the best showing under Brownell. There’s no reason to believe this season would be a significant drop off.