MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Chase Hunter delivered a standout performance with 21 points as sixth-seeded Clemson extinguished No. 11 seed New Mexico’s aspirations of mirroring the Mountain West’s previous success in the NCAA Tournament. The Clemson Tigers triumphed over the New Mexico Lobos with a decisive 77-56 victory on Friday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing March Madness competition.
Entering the tournament as Mountain West Tournament champions, the Lobos (26-10) were widely tipped to emulate San Diego State’s impressive run from the previous year. Despite being favored by 2 1/2 points, according to , New Mexico encountered a determined Clemson team. The Lobos’ path to the tournament title included victories over three other March Madness participants, notably including last year’s national runner-up, SDSU. However, their journey was halted by a dominant Clemson squad in this highly anticipated Clemson Vs New Mexico matchup.
“We were aware of the predictions suggesting New Mexico would defeat us, but our focus remained internal,” Clemson’s Chase Hunter commented post-game. “We ignited with intensity right from the tip-off, and they struggled to cope early on. We maintained that pressure, kept our composure and confidence, and ultimately closed out the game.” Hunter’s performance was pivotal in this Clemson vs New Mexico contest.
Clemson (22-11) showcased dominance on both ends of the court, establishing a commanding 19-point lead in the first half and extending it to 23 in the second. The Tigers’ defense was particularly stifling, restricting New Mexico to a season-low 29.7% shooting from the field and a mere 13% (3 of 23) from beyond the 3-point arc. This defensive masterclass was a key factor in the Clemson vs New Mexico game.
Tigers coach Brad Brownell highlighted their game plan to prevent New Mexico from attacking the basket, resulting in Clemson outscoring the Lobos 38-28 in the paint. “We successfully dictated the game’s tempo and style,” Brownell stated. “Our strong start was undeniably crucial to our success in this Clemson vs New Mexico game.”
New Mexico coach Richard Pitino lamented his team’s shooting woes, noting that he couldn’t recall consecutive made shots by the Lobos and described the baskets as feeling restrictive. “It was certainly an inopportune moment to experience a shooting slump,” Pitino acknowledged. “We simply couldn’t find our shots. Credit to Clemson; their size and discipline played a significant role.” The shooting struggles were a major storyline in the Clemson vs New Mexico matchup.
Looking ahead, Clemson is set to face third-seeded Baylor in the second round on Sunday. Baylor advanced with a convincing 92-67 victory over 14th-seeded Colgate. The winner of the Clemson vs Baylor game will advance to the Sweet 16 in Los Angeles on March 28, raising the stakes for Clemson after their victory in the Clemson vs New Mexico game.
Ian Schieffelin contributed a robust 16 points and 12 rebounds for Clemson, while PJ Hall added 14 points despite navigating foul trouble. Their contributions were vital to Clemson’s success in this Clemson vs New Mexico game.
Jamal Mashburn Jr., who followed Coach Pitino from Minnesota to New Mexico, briefly gave the Lobos their only lead with a jumper in the opening moments. However, Mashburn struggled for the remainder of the game, missing his final 10 attempts and finishing with just six points. His struggles mirrored New Mexico’s overall offensive difficulties in the Clemson vs New Mexico game.
Jaelen House, New Mexico’s leading scorer, fouled out with 12 points, while Nelly Junior Joseph posted 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Lobos. Despite their efforts, New Mexico couldn’t overcome Clemson’s dominant performance in this Clemson vs New Mexico contest.
Schieffelin’s jumper leveled the score before Hunter’s jumper propelled Clemson into the lead. New Mexico managed to tie the game again at 4-all, but that was the last time they were on equal footing.
Clemson then seized control with a 19-2 surge, establishing a 30-11 advantage. The Lobos narrowed the gap to 38-28 with a 3-pointer from House with 1:22 left in the half. However, Clark responded with a layup and two free throws, securing a 42-28 halftime lead for Clemson. This run was decisive in the Clemson vs New Mexico game.
Each time the Lobos attempted to mount a comeback, Clemson effectively countered, maintaining their comfortable lead and securing the win in this Clemson vs New Mexico matchup.
BIG PICTURE
New Mexico: The Lobos entered the game as betting favorites to continue the trend of 11 seeds advancing in the first round. This tournament appearance marked the program’s 16th bid and first since 2014. Their all-time tournament win tally remains at eight, with their last victory dating back to 2012. Throughout the season, New Mexico averaged a 46% shooting percentage, significantly higher than their performance in the Clemson vs New Mexico game.
Clemson: The Tigers entered the tournament having lost three of their last four games. This victory marks their first NCAA Tournament win since 2018. Clemson demonstrated superior ball movement with a 16-6 assist advantage and capitalized on turnovers, scoring 19 points compared to New Mexico’s 6 in this Clemson vs New Mexico game.
UP NEXT
Clemson aims to secure a second-round victory for the first time since 2018 when they face Baylor. The momentum from the Clemson vs New Mexico win will be crucial for their next challenge.
