New-look Clemson Basketball Team Rolls in Season Opener
Dominant Win Launches 2025-26 Season
The Clemson Tigers began their 2025-26 men’s basketball season with a commanding 88-38 victory over New Hampshire at Littlejohn Coliseum. This season marks significant change for Clemson and coach Brad Brownell, highlighted by the most transfers the program has seen under Brownell’s leadership.
Roster Overhaul and Player Debuts
Clemson used 12 players during the opener, with only one having worn the Tigers uniform last season. The team’s roster now consists of 76% new players, making these early game reps vital for team chemistry and performance.
Coach Brownell reflected on the transitional phase:
“We’ve still got to figure everybody out.”
Transfers Making Their Debut
- Nick Davidson (Nevada)
- Jake Wahlin (Utah)
- Carter Welling (Utah Valley State)
- Jestin Porter (Middle Tennessee State University)
- Butta Johnson (UAB)
- RJ Godfrey (former Clemson player returning after one season at Georgia)
Freshmen and Redshirt Freshmen Joining the Lineup
- True freshmen: Zac Foster, Chase Thompson, Trent Steinhour
- Redshirt freshmen: Ace Buckner, Dallas Thomas
Context of Opponent and Game Outcome
New Hampshire ended last season with an 8-24 record and was ranked 355th out of 364 Division I teams in NET rankings. Clemson’s overwhelming talent difference led to an expected blowout, surpassing the 41.5-point spread with a final margin of 50 points.
This game, while not indicative of Clemson's ultimate potential, provided essential court experience for the revamped roster.
Summary
The Clemson Tigers launched their season with a dominant win, heavily reliant on newcomers as they integrate a major roster overhaul under Coach Brownell.