What to watch when Syracuse men’s basketball plays Clemson

On January 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET, the Syracuse Orange will face the Clemson Tigers at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, South Carolina. This Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) matchup promises to be a compelling contest, with both teams bringing distinct strengths and challenges to the court.

Team Overview

• Clemson Tigers: With a season record of 15-4 and an impressive 7-1 in ACC play, Clemson enters this game on a three-game winning streak. Their recent performance includes a dramatic overtime victory against Pittsburgh, where they showcased their resilience and depth. The Tigers are currently tied for second place in the ACC standings, reflecting their strong position in the conference.
  Syracuse University Athletics
• Syracuse Orange: The Orange hold a 9-9 record, with a 3-4 mark in ACC play. They are coming off a significant 17-point comeback victory over Notre Dame, highlighting their potential when executing effectively. This win has provided a boost to their confidence as they prepare for this challenging road game.
  Syracuse University Athletics

Key Players to Watch

• Clemson Tigers:
  • Chase Hunter: Leading the team in scoring with an average of 17.6 points per game, Hunter is a dynamic guard known for his scoring ability and leadership on the floor.
    Fox Sports 1280
  • Ian Schieffelin: A versatile forward, Schieffelin contributes significantly with 13.0 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, showcasing his all-around game.
    Fox Sports 1280
• Syracuse Orange:
  • J.J. Starling: Since returning from injury, Starling has been a key contributor, averaging 16.8 points per game over his last five appearances. His scoring prowess is crucial for Syracuse’s offensive strategy.
    Syracuse University Athletics
  • Eddie Lampkin Jr.: A dominant presence in the paint, Lampkin Jr. has recorded a double-double in four consecutive games, averaging 7.9 rebounds per game. His interior defense and rebounding are vital for Syracuse’s success.
    Syracuse University Athletics

Game Dynamics

• Offensive Strategies:
  • Clemson: The Tigers are known for their perimeter shooting, having made 14 three-pointers in a recent game, tying for the eighth most in program history. Their ability to stretch the floor and create open shots will be a key factor in this matchup.
    Syracuse University Athletics
  • Syracuse: The Orange will rely on their interior game, leveraging Lampkin Jr.’s presence in the paint and Starling’s scoring ability to penetrate Clemson’s defense. Establishing a strong inside game could be crucial for Syracuse’s offensive success.
• Defensive Matchups:
  • Clemson: With a strong defensive record, allowing only 66.7 points per game, the Tigers will aim to contain Syracuse’s key scorers and disrupt their offensive flow.
  • Syracuse: The Orange will need to implement a defensive strategy that limits Clemson’s three-point shooting and controls the tempo of the game. Effective perimeter defense will be essential to prevent Clemson from exploiting their shooting strengths.

Game Outlook

Clemson enters the game as a 15.5-point favorite, reflecting their strong season performance and home-court advantage. However, Syracuse’s recent comeback victory and the return of key players like Starling suggest they are capable of competing at a high level. The outcome will depend on Syracuse’s ability to execute their game plan effectively and challenge Clemson’s strengths.

Viewing Information

The game will be broadcast live on the ACC Network, providing viewers with comprehensive coverage of this exciting matchup. Fans can also follow live updates and statistics through various sports news outlets and official team websites.

The January 22 matchup between Syracuse and Clemson offers a compelling narrative of a team on the rise facing a conference leader. With key players poised to make significant impacts, this game promises to be an exciting chapter in the ACC basketball season.