No. 18 Clemson Bounces Back, Defeats Georgia Tech 77-63 Behind Hot Three-Point Shooting

ATLANTA — Jake Wahlin and Nick Davidson scored 13 points apiece, and No. 18 Clemson caught fire from three-point range in the second half to defeat Georgia Tech 77-63 Saturday at McCamish Pavilion, bouncing back from the Tigers' first Atlantic Coast Conference loss.

Clemson (17-4, 7-1 ACC) regained its winning form after Tuesday's overtime defeat to NC State, though the Tigers required time to find their offensive rhythm. The victory keeps Clemson in strong position in the ACC standings as the conference race intensifies.

The Tigers struggled early, trailing 23-21 at the under-eight timeout of the first half while missing a series of three-point attempts. Clemson started just two-of-12 from beyond the arc in the game's opening 12 minutes.

Ace Buckner ignited Clemson's turnaround with a catch-and-shoot three-pointer at the 4:43 mark of the first half, capping a 12-0 run that gave the Tigers a 30-23 advantage. Georgia Tech (11-9, 2-5 ACC) briefly regained the lead on Chas Kelly's three-pointer with 1:17 remaining in the half for a 33-32 edge.

After missing five consecutive shots, Clemson recaptured the lead when Dillon Hunter drained a three-pointer at the halftime buzzer for a 35-33 advantage.

The Tigers seized control in the second half. Buckner scored consecutive baskets, the second a three-pointer, to give Clemson its first double-digit lead at 48-37 with 13:34 remaining. Buckner's trey was one of four straight by Clemson during a decisive stretch.

The Tigers extended their lead to 16 in the final minutes, never allowing Georgia Tech to threaten.

Stars and Standouts

Wahlin and Davidson led a balanced scoring attack that featured four Tigers in double figures. Both forwards provided interior scoring and perimeter shooting, demonstrating the versatility that makes Clemson difficult to defend.

Buckner emerged as the catalyst with timely baskets during critical junctures. His first-half three-pointer changed momentum, and his second-half scoring helped Clemson pull away.

The Tigers' three-point shooting transformation proved decisive. After converting just four of 16 attempts in the first half, Clemson made seven of 12 in the second half. The 58 percent second-half accuracy from deep represented a complete reversal from the opening period.

Senior forward RJ Godfrey battled foul trouble, limiting him to 18 minutes. He contributed nine points and four rebounds despite the limited action, ending an eight-game streak of double-figure scoring performances.

Defensively, Clemson excelled. The Tigers held Georgia Tech to 37 percent shooting from the field while converting 46 percent of their own attempts. Clemson's defensive intensity increased in the second half, forcing difficult shots and contesting every possession.

ACC Tournament Implications

The road victory demonstrates Clemson's resilience and maturity. Responding to adversity with a convincing road win speaks to the team's championship mentality and veteran leadership.

More significantly, the Tigers addressed a critical flaw from the NC State loss. After committing 13 turnovers against the Wolfpack, Clemson protected the basketball far better against Georgia Tech. Coach Brad Brownell emphasized improved ball security post-game, and the results showed.

Clemson attempted four more shots than Georgia Tech, a key metric Brownell and opposing coaches have identified. Teams that generate more shot attempts typically win, and Clemson's combination of fewer turnovers and defensive rebounds created that advantage.

At 7-1 in ACC play, the Tigers remain firmly in contention for a top-four conference finish. The double-bye in the ACC Tournament provides an enormous advantage, offering an extra day of rest while avoiding the grueling opening rounds.

The victory also strengthens Clemson's NCAA Tournament resume. Road wins in the ACC carry significant weight, and defeating Georgia Tech in Atlanta adds another quality result to the portfolio.

As the calendar turns toward February, Clemson has positioned itself for a strong finish. The team's defensive identity, balanced scoring, and veteran leadership provide a foundation for sustained success.

The Tigers return home to face Pittsburgh next Saturday, seeking to build on the momentum established in Atlanta and continue their push toward an NCAA Tournament berth.