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

Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Defeat 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. The 38 points allowed marked the fewest by Clemson in a season opener since a 58-30 win over Erskine on December 11, 1946.

Key Player Performances

The Tigers (1-0) were led by redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, who scored 18 points along with three rebounds, two assists, and one blocked shot. Buckner outperformed his father Greg Buckner’s debut stats from 1994, where Greg had 10 points, 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 (Suwanee, Georgia) nearly posted his third career double-double with nine points and nine rebounds. Other notable contributions included Jake Wahlin (Provo, Utah) with 11 points and four rebounds, Jestin Porter (Houston, Texas) who scored eight points and added five rebounds and three assists, and Carter Welling (Draper, Utah) with 10 points.

Game Highlights

Clemson ended the first half strong with a 15-2 run in the final 6:16, leading New Hampshire by 27 points at halftime, 43-16. A total of 12 players participated for Clemson, with 11 players scoring during the game.

Summary

The Tigers showcased defensive dominance and balanced scoring, highlighted by Buckner's impressive debut and a cohesive team effort to start their season on a high note.

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Clemson University Athletics Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-05

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