Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Roll ‘Cats by 50
Clemson University men’s basketball started the 2025-26 season with a commanding 88-38 win over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. The 38 points allowed were Clemson’s lowest in a season opener since December 11, 1946, when they defeated Erskine 58-30.
Key Player Performances
The Tigers (1-0) were led by redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, who finished with 18 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one block. Buckner outperformed his father, Greg Buckner, who in his 1994 debut scored 10 points, with nine assists and five rebounds.
“Ace Buckner finished an efficient 6-for-7 from the floor, including 6-for-7 from the free throw line.”
RJ Godfrey from Suwanee, Georgia, came close to his third career double-double, tallying nine points and nine rebounds. Jake Wahlin of Provo, Utah, contributed 11 points and four rebounds, while Jestin Porter of Houston, Texas, added eight points, five rebounds, and three assists. Carter Welling from Draper, Utah, also reached double digits with 10 points.
Game Summary
Clemson dominated the first half, closing on a 15-2 run in the final 6:16 and leading New Hampshire 43-16 at halftime. A total of 12 players participated for Clemson in the opener, with 11 players scoring.
Author’s summary: Clemson’s basketball team started strong in 2025-26 with Ace Buckner’s impressive debut fueling a dominant win and solid team performance against New Hampshire.