CLEMSON, S.C. — Tyrese Hunter delivered a standout performance with 23 points, highlighted by a crucial three-pointer with just 59.3 seconds remaining in overtime, guiding Memphis to a comeback victory against No. 16 Clemson, with a final score of 87-82 on Saturday.
Hunter was instrumental in the game, knocking down seven of Memphis’ twelve three-point shots, including two essential three-pointers during the overtime period.
Memphis (8-2) found themselves trailing 69-63 with 2:22 left in regulation after a layup by Ian Schieffelin. However, they concluded the second half with a critical 9-3 run, successfully forcing the game into overtime.
At the end of regulation, Clemson’s Chase Hunter failed to convert a long-range attempt, leaving the score tied.
The game remained tight as Clemson (8-2) was ahead 78-77 right before Hunter landed his first three-pointer of the overtime. After Clemson reclaimed a narrow lead of 81-80, Hunter promptly connected on another open three-pointer after receiving a pass from PJ Haggerty.
Colby Rogers contributed significantly for Memphis, adding 22 points by hitting four three-pointers.
For Clemson, Viktor Lakhin led the team with a double-double, scoring 23 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, while both Hunter and Schieffelin contributed 17 points each.
Key observations from the game include Memphis looking to bounce back in rankings following a previous loss to Arkansas State, and Clemson experiencing its first defeat of the season while being a ranked team. The Tigers faced difficulties getting Schieffelin into effective scoring positions during the critical moments of the second half and overtime.
A pivotal moment in the match occurred when Chase Hunter sank a three-pointer at 1:04, giving Clemson a 72-67 lead, only for Rogers to swiftly respond with a three-pointer of his own for Memphis.
In terms of statistics, Memphis showcased an impressive shooting performance, finishing with 52% shooting overall and 48% accuracy from three-point range, contrasting sharply with Clemson’s defensive averages of 40% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc.
Looking ahead, Memphis is set to face another Atlantic Coast Conference rival, Virginia, on Wednesday night, while Clemson will prepare to clash with in-state opponent South Carolina on Tuesday night.