As the Tigers return home unbeaten in conference play, head coach Brad Brownell made clear there will be no easing into ACC home action when SMU Mustangs visits Littlejohn Coliseum on Wednesday night.
“I think they’re one of the most talented teams in our league,” Brownell said.
Why SMU Is Dangerous
SMU enters the matchup riding momentum after a home win over North Carolina and boasting one of the ACC’s most explosive offenses.
Brownell started with the headliner.
“Boopie Miller is dynamite,” he said. “He can score. He’s a fifth-year player, highly experienced, great in pick-and-roll, and he has an unbelievable assist-to-turnover ratio.”
But the challenge goes far beyond one player.
Brownell also pointed to Jaron Pierre Jr. as a perimeter threat and Samet Yiğitoğlu as a difficult one-on-one matchup inside.
“They put so much pressure on you,” Brownell said. “They’ve got great size, experience, speed, and shooting. They’re averaging over 90 points a game.”
A Resume Opportunity
For Clemson, the matchup represents more than another ACC game. It’s a chance to stack a high-value win as the Tigers work to solidify their NCAA résumé.
SMU’s balance, pace and scoring ability will test Clemson’s defensive progress — the same progress that powered the Tigers through two tough road environments to open league play.
“Andy does a great job with his group,” Brownell said. “They’re extremely talented and well-coached, and it shows in their record.”
Next Step
Tipoff is set for 9 p.m. ET on ESPNU, with Clemson aiming to pair road toughness with home-court urgency.
The Tigers proved they can win away from home.
Wednesday will test whether they can raise the bar even higher.