Phenom Hoops is just like everyone else… they are ready to see talent back on the court this season. We have discussed a ton around the high school level, but we are as equally as excited about the upcoming college basketball season. Which is why we are looking and previewing teams for this upcoming season. Let's dive into what we are looking at for each team.
Clemson Tigers (Last Season’s Record: 16-15)
Stats (2019-2020)
Scoring: 66.5ppg
Scoring defense: 64.1ppg
Rebounding margin: -1.0
Turnover margin: +1.0
Assists: 12.9apg
Shooting percentage: 42.8%
3-point percentage: 31.5%
Free-Throw percentage: 68.6%
The return of Aamir Simms
There might not have been a bigger return in the ACC for a team than senior Aamir Simms. He was named third-team All-ACC last year averaging 13 points and seven rebounds, both leading the team. He tested the waters but ultimately returned to Clemson. Now, it gives the Tigers a versatile forward, a leader, and one that can create mismatches on the court. With his return, it certainly changes things around for the better for the Tigers.
Can John Newman continue his rise'
One player that Phenom Hoops is quite familiar with, junior John Newman III is one that will be interesting to see how much further he can take his game. A versatile 6'5 prospect that gets downhill, finishes strong, and can score from multiple areas, Newman started in 31 games last season. After averaging nine points per game, Newman could be in for his breakout season and should be called upon to do more for the Tigers. Can he deliver though'
Who else will step up for Clemson'
There are quite a few names that we are looking at with this question. Senior Clyde Trapp is a 6'4 prospect that can play multiple positions and made 19 starts, averaging six points last season. Then you look at sophomore Al-Amir Dawes, who had an excellent freshman campaign and got a ton of experience early on. Sophomore Chase Hunter is coming off a foot injury and hopes to have a solid sophomore season. Then you look at Hunter Tyson, a junior 6'8 forward that has played in 62 total games and provides depth/experience. Then you have others like Parker Fox and Alex Hemenway. Who will take their game to the next level with another year under their belt'
New players looking to make a name in the ACC
Junior Nick Honor is going to be one to watch, as the Fordham transfer brings a lot of intrigue to the table. He is a 5'10 point guard that averaged 15.3 points per game and brings an offensive mind to the table for Clemson. Then you have to look at 6'10 freshman PJ Hall, the top incoming recruit who could and should get early playing time with his size and ability. Then you have 6'10 senior Jonathan Baehre who is a UNC-Asheville transfer along with freshmen 6'8 forward Olivier-Maxence Prosper and 6’10 Lynn Kidd. Honor and Hall are the two new names that could really make an impact for the Tigers this season.
