Clemson Struggles to Find Rhythm in Tough Road Loss to Duke
DURHAM, N.C. - Clemson walked into Cameron Indoor Stadium on Saturday afternoon with a top-20 ranking and a 10-2 ACC record in hand. But by the time the final buzzer sounded, it was clear they’d run into a buzzsaw.
No. 4 Duke took control early and never really let go, handing the Tigers a 67-54 loss that exposed some of Clemson’s offensive vulnerabilities.
The Tigers (20-6, 10-3 ACC) held a lead for just 19 seconds all game and spent over 36 minutes chasing the Blue Devils on the scoreboard - the longest they’ve trailed in any game this season. It wasn’t for lack of effort, but Clemson simply couldn’t find a consistent rhythm, especially on the offensive end.
RJ Godfrey Hits Milestone, Leads Tigers in Scoring
RJ Godfrey was one of the few bright spots for Clemson. The sophomore forward posted 10 points and eight rebounds, leading the team in both categories. In doing so, he also crossed the 300-point mark for the first time in a single season - a solid milestone that reflects the growth in his game.
Godfrey brought energy on both ends of the floor, but it wasn’t enough to spark a stagnant offense. Clemson shot just 35.1% from the field and a season-low 25.0% from beyond the arc - numbers that simply don’t cut it against a team as disciplined and athletic as Duke.
Welling Stays Consistent, But Offense Falters
Carter Welling added 12 points, marking his 17th game this season in double figures. The Utah Valley transfer has been a reliable scoring option all year, and Saturday was no different. But with Duke locking down the perimeter and contesting nearly every look, Welling and company had trouble stringing together meaningful runs.
Ace Buckner and Nick Davidson chipped in seven points apiece, with Buckner also tying for the team lead in assists. But overall, Clemson’s offense lacked its usual flow.
The ball movement stalled at times, and when shots did come, they weren’t falling. The Tigers never found the kind of rhythm they needed to make a serious push.
Duke Pulls Away, Clemson Closes Strong
To Clemson’s credit, they didn’t fold. After falling behind by as many as 22 points late in the second half, the Tigers closed the game on a 12-3 run over the final 4:40. It didn’t change the outcome, but it showed some fight - and that kind of resilience can still pay dividends down the stretch in ACC play.
Still, this was a game that highlighted some concerns. Clemson’s offense, which has been efficient for much of the season, looked out of sync against Duke’s pressure. The inability to generate clean looks or capitalize on second chances made the margin feel wider than the final score.
What’s Next
Clemson won’t have much time to dwell on this one. They’ll be back on the road Wednesday, February 18, when they take on a dangerous Wake Forest squad. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. on ACC Network.
With the ACC standings tightening and March looming, this next stretch will be crucial. Clemson has the talent and depth to bounce back - but they’ll need to shoot better, move the ball more effectively, and recapture the offensive identity that got them into the top 20 in the first place.