CLEMSON, S.C. — Chase Hunter delivered a standout performance, netting 25 points, including five of Clemson’s 13 3-pointers, leading the Tigers to a decisive 77-57 victory over Florida State on Saturday.
Clemson came out strong in the second half, converting all five of their attempts within the first four minutes. This burst contributed to a commanding 13-2 run, which expanded their lead from seven points at halftime to 18 points, bringing the score to 49-31.
The Seminoles attempted to close the gap as Jerry Deng scored with a layup and a 3-pointer, while Malique Ewin added two free throws, bringing Florida State to within 58-47 with just under nine minutes remaining. However, it was the Tigers who regained control, allowing Florida State to score only two points in the following four minutes, re-establishing an 18-point lead and permitting just eight points for the remainder of the game.
Clemson’s Jaeden Zackery contributed 15 points, while Chauncey Wiggins added another 12 for the Tigers (13-4, 5-1 ACC). This win marked a solid rebound for Clemson following their earlier loss to Louisville. The Tigers are now tied with Louisville, both just a game behind ACC frontrunner Duke (6-0).
In terms of shooting performance, Clemson demonstrated efficiency with a 48% success rate overall, sinking 13 of 28 attempts from beyond the arc. On the other hand, Florida State (11-5, 2-3) saw Ewin finish with 15 points and nine rebounds, while Jamir Watkins and Deng each scored 11. The Seminoles managed to achieve a 43% shooting percentage overall, making 4 of 16 from 3-point range.
Clemson initially found their rhythm from deep, converting 7 of their first 10 3-point attempts and establishing a 27-19 lead approximately six and a half minutes before halftime. However, their shooting cooled as they concluded the half 7 of 15 on 3-pointers, with Hunter and Zackery each contributing 10 points to hold a 36-29 advantage at halftime.
Looking ahead, Clemson will face Georgia Tech on Tuesday, while Florida State prepares to host Pitt on Wednesday.