Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Dominate New Hampshire by 50
Clemson University men’s basketball began the 2025-26 season with a commanding 88-38 victory over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. Allowing only 38 points marked Clemson’s best defensive opener since December 11, 1946, when they defeated Erskine 58-30.
Standout Performances
Redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, and La Lumiere School (Indiana) led the Tigers with 18 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one block. Impressively, he outperformed his father Greg Buckner, who scored 10 points with nine assists and five rebounds in his Clemson debut in 1994.
Ace Buckner finished an efficient 6-for-7 from the floor, including 6-for-7 from the free throw line.
RJ Godfrey of Suwanee, Georgia, nearly posted his third career double-double with nine points and nine rebounds. Jake Wahlin from Provo, Utah, added 11 points and four rebounds, while Jestin Porter from Houston, Texas, contributed eight points, five rebounds, and three assists. Carter Welling from Draper, Utah, also reached double figures scoring 10 points.
Game Highlights
Clemson closed the first half strongly, going on a 15-2 run during the last 6:16 of the half, leading New Hampshire by 27 points at halftime, 43-16. A total of 12 Clemson players participated, with 11 of them scoring.
Summary
The Tigers showcased a dominant defensive effort and a balanced scoring attack to open their season with a decisive win.
Author's summary: Clemson’s men’s basketball team displayed a dominant defense and efficient scoring, led by Ace Buckner’s impressive debut, securing a convincing season-opening win.