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

The Clemson University men’s basketball team began the 2025–26 season with an emphatic 88–38 win over New Hampshire on Monday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. It was a wire-to-wire showcase of control and efficiency for the Tigers.

The 38 points conceded were Clemson’s fewest in a season opener since December 11, 1946, when they defeated Erskine 58–30.

Ace Buckner Leads the Charge

Redshirt freshman Ace Buckner from Dallas, Texas (La Lumiere School, Indiana) impressed in his first collegiate game, scoring 18 points along with three rebounds, two assists, and one block. His standout performance even topped that of his father, Greg Buckner, who tallied 10 points, nine assists, and five rebounds in his Clemson debut on November 29, 1994, versus Charleston Southern.

Buckner shot 6-for-7 from the field and was perfect on six free-throw attempts.

Team Effort and Key Contributions

RJ Godfrey nearly achieved his third career double-double, recording nine points and nine rebounds.
Jake Wahlin contributed 11 points and four rebounds.
Jestin Porter added eight points, five rebounds, and three assists.
Carter Welling reached double figures with 10 points.

Clemson closed the first half with a 15–2 surge in the final six minutes and sixteen seconds, leading 43–16 at halftime. In total, 12 Tigers took the floor, and 11 players registered points.

Historical Context

This dominant performance continues Clemson’s solid tradition of strong season openers and signals promising balance across its young roster.

Author’s summary: Clemson kicked off its season with a commanding home victory led by Ace Buckner’s efficient debut, highlighting depth and defensive discipline throughout the roster.

Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-05