Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Defeat ‘Cats by 50
Clemson University men’s basketball opened the 2025-26 season with an 88-38 victory over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. Allowing only 38 points marked the fewest Clemson conceded in a season opener since a 58-30 win over Erskine on December 11, 1946.
Key Performances
The Tigers (1-0) were led by redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, who scored 18 points, grabbed three rebounds, dished out two assists, and blocked one shot. Buckner outpaced his father, Greg Buckner (1994-98), who had 10 points, nine assists, and five rebounds in his debut on November 29, 1994 against Charleston Southern.
Ace Buckner was efficient, making 6 of 7 shots and converting all 7 free throws.
- RJ Godfrey (Suwanee, Ga.) came close to a double-double with nine points and nine rebounds.
- Jake Wahlin (Provo, Utah) contributed 11 points and four rebounds.
- Jestin Porter (Houston, Texas) added eight points, five rebounds, and three assists.
- Carter Welling (Draper, Utah) scored 10 points.
Game Highlights
The Tigers ended the first half with a 15-2 run during the last 6:16, leading New Hampshire 43-16 at the break. A total of 12 players participated for Clemson, with 11 scoring in the game.
"The 38 points allowed were the fewest allowed by Clemson in a season opener since Dec. 11, 1946 when it beat Erskine 58-30."
"Buckner finished an efficient 6-for-7 from the floor, including 6-for-7 from the free throw line."
Author’s summary: Ace Buckner’s strong debut helped Clemson dominate New Hampshire 88-38, marking one of their best defensive season openers in nearly 80 years.