The season just ended over a month ago, but a lot of things have changed and will continue to change in the college basketball landscape. Phenom Hoops has been keeping up with all that has been going on, and with us being so close to the coverage of ACC basketball, we certainly have our eyes on programs around the area.
Clemson is a team that I have my eyes on early on in the ACC, as they could be a strong play once again in the conference with the key additions they have brought in. Clemson will be losing Hunter Tyson, but with PJ Hall potentially being on the floor next season, key transfers coming in, and the growth of other plays, the Tigers will be looking strong.
Why am I so high on Clemson' Let’s dive into it more.
Let’s first look at the incoming transfers so far; Joe Girard III was a big addition for the program. The former Syracuse guard is coming off a tremendous season in which he averaged over 16 points per game and is one that fits right into Clemson’s offense. He has a natural ability to score the ball, can create his own shot, and can be a consistent threat from outside with range.
Jack Clark, a former NC State product, should be another nice piece for Clemson. He brings a veteran to the floor with a ton of experience, and he got a taste of ACC basketball with the Wolfpack. He should be a nice complement on the floor with his 6’8 size, his ability to score and rebound, and just be a critical piece on the court that doesn’t need the spotlight.
6’5 Jake Heidbreder is another player that has played in over 60 games at Air Force and is coming off a season in which he averaged 15ppg, shot nearly 49 percent from the floor, and can be a threat from outside (hit 75 3-pointers last season). Again, with Clemson’s style of play, Heidbreder could be another nice piece.
Lastly, former UNCG’s Bas Leyte brings his 6’10 frame that will only help bring more size, depth, and veteran leadership as well. And then you have incoming recruit Asa Thomas, who is a 6’7 prospect that could come in and earn some valuable minutes with his style of play.
Adding these to a team that has PJ Hall who has been an ACC star and should be in the discussion for ACC POY again, Chase Hunter who averaged 13.8ppg and nearly a 2:1 assist-turnover ratio, and with players like Ian Schieffelin, Josh Beadle, Alex Hemenway, RJ Godfrey, and Chauncey Wiggins looking to take the next step, Clemson has a lot going for them.
With depth, scoring impact, versatility, and inside-out presence, the Tigers could be looking quite strong coming into the season and they look to be an early dark horse in the ACC in my eyes.