Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Roll ‘Cats by 50
Clemson University men’s basketball started the 2025-26 season with a commanding 88-38 victory over New Hampshire at Littlejohn Coliseum. The 38 points allowed mark the fewest given up by Clemson in a season opener since beating Erskine 58-30 on December 11, 1946.
Key Performances
The Tigers (1-0) were led by redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, who contributed 18 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one block. Buckner outscored his father, Greg Buckner, who scored 10 points with nine assists and five rebounds in his Clemson debut in 1994.
- Ace Buckner shot an efficient 6-for-7 from the field and made all 6 of his free throws.
- RJ Godfrey from Suwanee, Georgia, nearly posted his third career double-double with nine points and nine rebounds.
- Jake Wahlin of Provo, Utah, finished with 11 points and four rebounds.
- Jestin Porter from Houston, Texas, recorded eight points, five rebounds, and three assists.
- Carter Welling of Draper, Utah, also scored in double digits with 10 points.
Game Summary
Clemson closed the first half with a 15-2 run over the last 6:16, leading New Hampshire 43-16 at halftime. A total of 12 players saw action for Clemson, with 11 of them contributing points.
Ace Buckner outscored his father, Greg Buckner (1994-98), who posted 10 points, nine assists, and five rebounds in his debut on Nov. 29, 1994 against Charleston Southern.
Author's summary: Ace Buckner led Clemson’s dominant 50-point season-opening win with an efficient 18-point performance, showcasing promising talent and team depth early in the season.