Clemson moves to 9-2 after loses a tough one against Memphis in overtime, 87-82.
There's no shame in losing to Memphis. The Tigers were on a huge run to begin the season but stumbled last Sunday against Arkansas State. Clemson showed heart by battling back after not scoring a point for the first 5:44. The second half went much better for Clemson, leading by as much as six points.
However, it was a back-and-forth affair, with 12 lead changes but only three ties. Memphis had an answer for every single Clemson blow, especially guard Tyrese Hunter. Usually, when fans see a player with the last name Hunter knocking down threes in Littlejohn Coliseum, fans cheer. But that wasn't the case today. The Memphis senior made seven three-point shots, many killing Clemson runs.
Altogether, Memphis only scored two more three-point baskets than Clemson, but Memphis' did just enough to stay in the game until the end of regulation.
Still, both teams wouldn't let go of the game easily, with the extra period consisting of six lead changes in five minutes. Unfortunately, Memphis forced Clemson into using desperation fouls with 15 seconds left, which turned into four points from the charity stripe and icing the game.
Clemson can bounce back on Tuesday against South Carolina. The Tigers will travel to Columbia for their annual meeting, starting at 7:00 PM on December 17, 2024.