Clemson’s ACC Tournament Run Ends Against Duke in Semifinal Showdown
CLEMSON TIGERS VS. DUKE | MARCH 13, 2026
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The energy inside Spectrum Center on semifinal night felt like March basketball at its finest.
The Clemson Tigers entered the ACC Tournament semifinal riding the momentum of a hard-fought quarterfinal win and hoping to reach their first ACC championship game in several years. Standing across from them was the conference’s top seed and one of the most talented rosters in the country — the Duke Blue Devils.
For a brief stretch early in the game, Clemson looked ready for the challenge.
But Duke’s depth, rebounding dominance and star power eventually proved too much to overcome.
The Blue Devils defeated Clemson 73-61, ending the Tigers’ ACC Tournament run one game short of the championship.
First Half: Duke Turns Momentum
Clemson opened the game with confidence and controlled the early tempo. The Tigers briefly held a 16-15 lead midway through the first half, attacking the rim and forcing Duke into difficult defensive possessions.
That momentum didn’t last long.
Duke responded with a decisive run, tightening its defense and dominating the glass. The Blue Devils closed the half on a 25-7 run, turning a close game into a commanding lead.
By halftime, Clemson found itself trailing by 19 points, largely due to second-chance opportunities created by Duke’s rebounding advantage.
Boozer Leads the Blue Devils
Freshman forward Cameron Boozer delivered another standout performance for Duke.
Boozer finished with 24 points, 14 rebounds and five assists, recording his 19th double-double of the season. His ability to control the paint and initiate offense proved critical throughout the game.
Guard Cayden Boozer added 16 points, while Nikolas Khamenia scored 14, giving Duke balanced production across the lineup.
The Blue Devils also controlled the boards, outrebounding Clemson 41-27.
Second Half: Clemson Shows Fight
Despite the deficit, Clemson refused to fade quietly.
Forward RJ Godfrey led the Tigers with 18 points and six rebounds, helping Clemson chip away at the lead midway through the second half.
The Tigers tightened defensively and found better rhythm offensively, but each push was answered by Duke with timely baskets or defensive stops.
Clemson could never cut the deficit into single digits.
Final Thoughts
The loss closed Clemson’s ACC Tournament run with a 24-10 record, while Duke advanced to the conference championship game with a chance to secure another title.
For Clemson, attention now turns to Selection Sunday, where the Tigers hope their season résumé will earn them a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
