Buckner Shines in Clemson Debut; Tigers Roll ‘Cats by 50

Clemson University men’s basketball began the 2025-26 season with a commanding 88-38 victory over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. The 38 points allowed marked Clemson’s best defensive opener since December 11, 1946, when they beat Erskine 58-30.

Standout Performance by Ace Buckner

Redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas, and La Lumiere School (Indiana) led the Tigers with 18 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one block. Buckner surpassed his father, Greg Buckner, who scored 10 points with nine assists and five rebounds in his debut on November 29, 1994, against Charleston Southern. Ace was highly efficient, shooting 6-for-7 from the field and 6-for-7 from the free throw line.

Supporting Contributions

RJ Godfrey (Suwanee, Georgia/North Gwinnett/Georgia) nearly posted his third career double-double, finishing with nine points and nine rebounds.
Jake Wahlin (Provo, Utah/Timpview/Utah) added 11 points and four rebounds.
Jestin Porter (Houston, Texas/Cypress Ridge/Middle Tennessee State) scored eight points, adding five rebounds and three assists.
Carter Welling (Draper, Utah/Corner Canyon/Utah Valley) contributed 10 points.

Game Highlights

Clemson closed the first half with a 15-2 run in the final 6:16, leading New Hampshire by 27 at halftime with a score of 43-16. A total of 12 players appeared for Clemson in the opener, with 11 scoring.

“The 38 points allowed were the fewest Clemson has allowed in an opener since Dec. 11, 1946,” reflecting a dominant defensive effort.

Author’s summary: Clemson’s dominant season opener featured Ace Buckner’s impressive debut and a commanding defensive effort leading to a 50-point blowout victory.

Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-05