Clemson Basketball: Taking a look at the Tigers’ strong history as a 5-seed

Out of Clemson basketball’s few appearances in the NCAA tournament, they have had their most success as a 5-seed. The Tigers look to continue that strong history in 2018.

This is the first time Brad Brownell has led Clemson to the NCAA tournament since 2011. Hats off to Brownell for righting the ship after a disastrous 2017 season, after which many thought he may get fired.

The Tigers sit as the No. 5 seed, awaiting a first round matchup with the 12th seeded New Mexico State Aggies.

5 seed history

Clemson basketball hasn’t made too many NCAA tournament appearances. They haven’t fared particularly well when playing in the NCAA tournament either, posting a 9-11 record overall.

That being said, Clemson has experienced success as a 5 seed.

During the 1990 season, the Tigers started of the NCAA tournament as a 5-seed and eventually advanced all the way to the sweet sixteen, coming within a point of upsetting No. 1 seed, UConn.

Road to the Final Four

Clemson has their work cut out for them in the 2018 NCAA Tournament. They were fortunate enough to land in the Midwest region of the bracket.

In my opinion, the Midwest is top heavy. Outside of Kansas, Duke and Michigan State, there aren’t many teams in the Midwest region of the bracket that scare me. On top of that, Duke and Kansas have been inconsistent all season long.

Before the Tigers, have to worry about facing any of those opponents deeper into the tournament, they have to make it mast New Mexico State. As we discussed earlier in the week, the Aggies have the fire power to hurt Clemson from beyond the arch. It’ll be important for the Tigers’ to use their size advantage in the post.

Next: Reasonable Expectations for Clemson in the NCAA Tournament

Overall, Clemson has a decent shot at making it to the sweet sixteen. Should they handle New Mexico State, they would go on to face either Auburn, or Charleston. I believe the Tigers are capable of defeating either opponent.