Clemson Tigers vs. SMU Mustangs: A High-Stakes ACC Tournament Showdown

The stage is set for an exciting matchup in the second round of the ACC Tournament as the No. 3 seed Clemson Tigers face off against the No. 6 seed SMU Mustangs. Scheduled for Thursday, March 13, 2025, at 9:30 PM ET, this game promises to be a thriller for college basketball fans. The Tigers and Mustangs are set to clash in a battle that could have significant implications for their NCAA Tournament hopes. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from this highly anticipated game.

The Teams: A Tale of Two Contenders

The Clemson Tigers, ranked No. 10 in the nation, enter this game with a formidable record of 26-5. They already have a win over the Mustangs during the regular season, defeating SMU 79-69 in late February. The Tigers’ offensive firepower was on full display in that game, with three players scoring at least 16 points and the team shooting an impressive 48% from three-point range, knocking down 14 shots from beyond the arc. Chase Hunter, Clemson’s star player, led the charge with 17 points on 50% shooting. However, Hunter has struggled recently, scoring less than 10 points in three of his last four games, making this a crucial opportunity for him to bounce back.

On the other side of the court, the SMU Mustangs (23-9) are known for their balanced offensive attack. Six players average double-digit scoring, making them one of the most versatile teams in college basketball. Boopie Miller leads the charge, averaging 13.3 points and 5.6 assists per game. For SMU to pull off the upset, Miller will need to step up and lead his team’s offensive efforts. A win would significantly boost the Mustangs’ chances of making the NCAA Tournament, while a loss could dash their hopes.

Key Players to Watch

Chase Hunter is undoubtedly the player to watch for the Clemson Tigers. Despite his recent scoring slump, Hunter’s ability to perform under pressure makes him a game-changer. His performance in the previous matchup against SMU was instrumental in the Tigers’ victory, and they will need similar contributions if they hope to advance. On the defensive end, the Mustangs will need to find a way to contain Hunter and make him uncomfortable if they stand any chance of slowing down Clemson’s offense.

For SMU, all eyes will be on Boopie Miller. As the team’s leading scorer and playmaker, Miller’s performance will be pivotal. If he can deliver a strong game on both ends of the floor, the Mustangs might just have what it takes to upset the higher-seeded Tigers. Additionally, SMU’s ability to spread the ball and involve multiple players in the offense could be a key factor in keeping up with Clemson’s high-powered attack.

The Stakes: NCAA Tournament Implications

This game is more than just a tournament matchup; it’s a potential make-or-break moment for both teams. For the SMU Mustangs, a win would be a huge resume booster as they fight for a spot in the NCAA Tournament. A loss, however, would likely end their hopes of securing an at-large bid. On the other hand, the Clemson Tigers are already in a strong position, but a deep run in the ACC Tournament could solidify their standing as one of the top teams in the country.

The winner of this game will move on to face either No. 2 Louisville or No. 7 Stanford in the semifinals. With Selection Sunday looming, both teams understand the importance of performing well in this tournament. A strong showing could not only secure their place in the NCAA Tournament but also improve their seeding, giving them a better chance of making a deep postseason run.

How to Watch: Don’t Miss the Action

Fans won’t want to miss this exciting matchup, and there are multiple ways to catch the game. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2, with tip-off at 9:30 PM ET on Thursday, March 13. For those who prefer streaming, FuboTV will have the game available, and new subscribers can even watch for free. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of either team or just a lover of college basketball, this game is sure to deliver plenty of excitement.

Conclusion: A Game for the Ages

The Clemson Tigers vs. SMU Mustangs matchup has all the ingredients of a classic college basketball game. With high stakes, talented players, and evenly matched teams, this game has the potential to be one to remember. The Tigers’ offensive firepower will be put to the test against the Mustangs’ balanced attack, and the outcome could have a significant impact on both teams’ seasons. Whether you’re rooting for Clemson or SMU, this game is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the final buzzer sounds.