Clemson, S.C. — One of the ACC’s premier matchups tips off Saturday as two of the conference’s most consistent teams meet with first place implications. Clemson (15–3, 5–0 ACC) holds a slight analytical edge and the benefit of home court, but Miami (15–2, 4–0) arrives riding momentum, confidence, and one of the league’s most balanced attacks.
Clemson has built its success on disciplined defense and controlled offense, grinding opponents down over 40 minutes. Miami, meanwhile, thrives by attacking the paint and spreading responsibility across the roster. With both teams undefeated in conference play, this matchup is as much about statement-making as it is about positioning in the ACC race.
Resume Check
Miami enters Saturday on a 10-game winning streak, with its only two losses coming against BYU and defending national champion Florida. During this run, the Hurricanes have shown the ability to score efficiently, rebound with purpose, and defend without panic, particularly in late-game situations.
Clemson’s resume mirrors that consistency. The Tigers have won eight straight, protecting home court while dispatching conference opponents with physicality and effort. Their three losses — to Georgetown, Alabama, and BYU — all came against high-level competition. Clemson’s identity remains clear: defend, rebound, and make opponents earn every possession.
Players to Watch
Miami:
• Mason Reneau is the offensive engine, scoring efficiently from all three levels and setting the tone offensively.
• Elias Udeh Jr. controls the interior, providing rim protection and second-chance points through rebounding.
• Tre Donaldson stabilizes the offense with elite assist-to-turnover efficiency and decision-making.
Clemson:
• RJ Godfrey leads a balanced attack, combining physical rebounding with smart shot selection.
• Carter Welling anchors the paint, impacting the game on the glass and finishing efficiently around the rim.
How Each Team Wins
Miami wins if:
• They dictate tempo and establish early paint touches
• Their defense forces Clemson into contested perimeter shots
• They protect the basketball and limit transition mistakes
Clemson wins if:
• They grind possessions and disrupt Miami’s scoring rhythm
• Their guards control pace and generate quality looks
• They win the rebounding battle on both ends
Prediction
This is one of the marquee college basketball games of the weekend, featuring two top-tier ACC teams with contrasting styles. In a matchup this tight, home-court advantage and rebounding loom large — and both favor Clemson.
With the crowd behind them and their physicality setting the tone, the Tigers create just enough separation late.
Clemson 74, Miami 63
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