Clemson Triumphs Over Kentucky in SEC/ACC Challenge
CLEMSON, S.C. – The Clemson Tigers secured a surprising victory over the No. 4 Kentucky Wildcats with a score of 70-66 during the SEC/ACC Challenge on Tuesday night, marking Kentucky’s first loss of the season.
Chauncey Wiggins led the Tigers with 12 points, while Ian Schieffelin made a significant impact with 11 points and a career-high 20 rebounds. This impressive performance played a crucial role in limiting Kentucky, who entered the game averaging 96.7 points per game, to just 66 points.
Clemson took control of the game with a pivotal 10-2 run after taking the lead for the final time at 53-52 with just over ten minutes remaining, thanks to a layup by Del Jones.
Kentucky’s Lamont Butler managed to bring the score to 68-66 with a three-pointer in the closing seconds, but Chase Hunter sealed Clemson’s victory with two successful free throws.
Otega Oweh was the standout performer for the Wildcats with 17 points, complemented by Amari Williams’ nine points and ten rebounds.
Key Takeaways
Kentucky’s coach Mark Pope, in his first year, had seen his team perform remarkably well until facing the staunch defense of Clemson.
Conversely, Clemson aims to build on this victory after a successful SEC/ACC Challenge last year that helped them reach the Elite Eight, hoping this win serves as a launching pad for their NCAA aspirations.
Looking Ahead
Kentucky will next face off against No. 7 Gonzaga on Saturday, while Clemson prepares to open ACC play against Miami on the same day.
