CLEMSON, S.C. — In their season opener on Monday night, Clemson showcased an impressive performance, defeating Charleston Southern with a score of 91-64. Leading the way for the Tigers were Chase Hunter and Myles Foster, who both contributed 17 points to the team’s success.
Both Hunter and Foster, a transfer from Illinois State, displayed remarkable shooting skills, each hitting 6 of their 8 attempts from the field, including a perfect 5-for-5 from beyond the arc. Additionally, Viktor Lakhin provided valuable support to the team with 12 points.
Chase Hunter returned for his sixth season at Clemson and had entered the game already holding a significant milestone as the 46th player in the program’s history to amass over 1,000 career points, boasting a total of 1,228 points prior to the start of the season.
The Tigers had a strong night offensively, shooting 49% from the field (32 of 65) and dishing out 16 assists. Four players registered at least three assists each, showcasing the team’s great ball movement.
On the other side, Lamar Oden Jr. was the standout for Charleston Southern, scoring 15 points. His teammates Daylen Berry and Keenan Wilkins contributed 14 and 10 points, respectively, while Taje’ Kelly dominated the boards, securing 12 rebounds for the Buccaneers.
Clemson’s Dillon Hunter sparked the scoring effort with a three-pointer midway through the first half, extending the Tigers’ lead to 25-14. Chase Hunter further cemented Clemson’s advantage by sinking three consecutive three-pointers during a decisive 22-8 run, allowing the team to hold a commanding 48-24 lead at halftime.
In the second half, Lakhin continued to drive the momentum, making two layups in succession and increasing the lead to its peak of 33 points with just seven minutes left on the clock.
Historically, Clemson has dominated the series against Charleston Southern, now boasting a perfect record of 21-0 since their competition began in the 1975-76 season. Under the direction of Coach Brad Brownell, the Tigers have never lost to the Buccaneers, holding a record of 3-0 against them.