Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Dominate New Hampshire
The Clemson University men’s basketball team began the 2025-26 season with a commanding 88-38 victory over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. Allowing only 38 points marked Clemson’s best defensive performance in a season opener since December 11, 1946, when they defeated Erskine 58-30.
Standout Performance by Ace Buckner
Redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, and La Lumiere School, led the Tigers with 18 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one block. Buckner surpassed his father Greg Buckner’s debut stats from 1994, who had 10 points, nine assists, and five rebounds against Charleston Southern.
Ace Buckner finished an efficient 6-for-7 from the floor, including 6-for-7 from the free throw line.
Supporting Contributions
- RJ Godfrey (Suwanee, Ga./North Gwinnett/Georgia) nearly recorded a double-double with 9 points and 9 rebounds.
- Jake Wahlin (Provo, Utah/Timpview/Utah) scored 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.
- Jestin Porter (Houston, Texas/Cypress Ridge/Middle Tennessee State) added 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists.
- Carter Welling (Draper, Utah/Corner Canyon/Utah Valley) contributed 10 points.
Game Highlights
Clemson finished the first half with a dominant 15-2 run in the last 6:16, leading New Hampshire 43-16 at halftime. Overall, 12 Tigers players took the court and 11 scored in the season opener.