Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Roll ‘Cats by 50

Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Dominate New Hampshire

The Clemson University men's basketball team started the 2025-26 season with a commanding 88-38 victory over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. Allowing only 38 points marked the fewest allowed by Clemson in a season opener since December 11, 1946, when they defeated Erskine 58-30.

Standout Performances

The Tigers (1-0) were led by redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, who scored 18 points, grabbed three rebounds, dished out two assists, and blocked one shot. Buckner outperformed his father Greg Buckner’s debut stats from 1994, who had 10 points, nine assists, and five rebounds against Charleston Southern. Ace was highly efficient, making 6 of 7 field goal attempts and converting all 7 free throws.

RJ Godfrey of Suwanee, Georgia, came close to his third career double-double with nine points and nine rebounds. Jake Wahlin (Provo, Utah) contributed 11 points and four rebounds. Jestin Porter (Houston, Texas) added eight points, five rebounds, and three assists, while Carter Welling (Draper, Utah) completed the double-digit scorers with 10 points.

Game Summary

Clemson closed the first half with a 15-2 run in the last 6:16, leading New Hampshire 43-16 at halftime. Overall, 12 players saw action, with 11 scoring points for Clemson in this dominating season opener.

"The 38 points allowed were the fewest allowed by Clemson in a season opener since Dec. 11, 1946 when it beat Erskine 58-30."
"Buckner finished an efficient 6-for-7 from the floor, including 6-for-7 from the free throw line."

Author's summary: Clemson's strong start to the season was fueled by Ace Buckner's impressive debut, leading the Tigers to a decisive 50-point win over New Hampshire with tough defense and balanced scoring.

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Clemson University Athletics Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-04

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