MEMPHIS – The Clemson Tigers delivered a commanding performance in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, securing a decisive 77-56 victory over the New Mexico Lobos. This dominant win marked Clemson’s second-largest victory margin in program history in NCAA Tournament play, propelling them into the second round.
Chase Hunter led the charge for the Tigers (22-11), erupting for 21 points on an efficient 8-of-16 shooting from the field. The Atlanta native also showcased his all-around game, dishing out a team-high six assists, grabbing three rebounds, and recording two steals. Hunter’s dynamic playmaking was instrumental in Clemson’s offensive success against New Mexico.
Ian Schieffelin was another standout performer for Clemson, notching his 10th double-double of the season. The forward from Loganville, Georgia, contributed 16 points and hauled in 12 rebounds, demonstrating his scoring ability and dominance on the boards. Schieffelin’s consistent double-double threat provides a significant advantage for the Tigers as they advance in the tournament.
PJ Hall also reached double figures for Clemson, adding 14 points, along with three rebounds and a steal. Jack Clark provided valuable contributions across the stat sheet, scoring six points, securing eight rebounds, and distributing four assists, while also playing tenacious defense.
Clemson’s bench outscored New Mexico’s reserves 13-12, with RJ Godfrey leading the way with six points and Chauncey Wiggins chipping in with five. The collective effort from Clemson’s roster proved too much for New Mexico to handle.
After a tightly contested opening few minutes, Clemson seized control of the game with a dominant 19-2 run in the first half, surging to a 30-11 lead. The Tigers maintained their advantage, carrying a 42-28 lead into halftime.
Clemson extended their lead further after the break, opening the second half with a 9-2 run to establish a 21-point cushion. A Chase Hunter jumper late in the game pushed Clemson’s lead to its largest of the afternoon at 75-52, sealing the convincing 21-point victory over New Mexico.
Defensively, Clemson stifled the New Mexico offense, holding the Lobos to a mere 29.7 percent shooting from the field – their lowest shooting percentage of the season by a significant margin of nearly 6.0 percent. This defensive clinic marked Clemson’s second-best field goal percentage defense differential in an NCAA Tournament game.
With this impressive win over New Mexico, Clemson advances to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. They are set to face No. 3 seed Baylor on Sunday at 6:10 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast nationally on TNT.
