The Tigers entered their game against Duke on a little bit of a high note after their win over then No. 25 Louisville on Wednesday 54-50 in LittleJohn Coliseum. That high was quickly deflated as the Blue Devils jumped out early and never looked back.
Clemson ended this game shooting 35.1% from the field and 23.8% from behind the three point line. Many would think that was the issue today with the loss but to put it in perspective the Tigers, in their win against Louisville shot 35.8% from the field and 20% from behind the three point line.
The difference, just like it was to begin the season and before Clemson had the stoppage, they won off of their defense. In today’s game Duke shot 45.9% from 32.3% from behind the three point line.
Another thing that has plagued the Tigers, especially since the stoppage, has been turnovers. Clemson had 13 turnovers against Duke that the Blue Devils turned into 25 points. When a team does not shoot a high percentage from the floor every possession becomes crucial.
Brad Brownell’s team have never been known for their offensive prowess. His teams win off of defense and turnovers. The upsetting thing about these losses has been that the Tigers have not looked like they’ve been able to figure out how to correct the issues and problems. For a team that has set themselves up for an NCAA tournament bid they’ve got to get them fixed and quickly if they want to finish strong.
