Clemson Women’s Basketball Secures Historic Win Against No. 9 Duke

On February 22, 2026, the Clemson Tigers women's basketball team achieved a significant milestone by defeating No. 9 Duke 53-51 at Littlejohn Coliseum. This victory marked Clemson's first win against an AP Top 10 team since 2022 and snapped Duke's 17-game winning streak, as well as their perfect record in Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) play. The win is pivotal for Clemson, as it positions the team closer to securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since the 2018-19 season.

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Clemson's triumph was characterized by a dramatic late-game performance. After trailing 40-30 with nine minutes remaining, the Tigers mounted a comeback, with junior guard Hannah Kohn hitting a game-winning three-pointer with just 3.1 seconds left on the clock. Kohn's shot came after a crucial assist from senior Mia Moore, who also contributed defensively with three steals. Coach Shawn Poppie praised the team's resilience, noting that despite being down early, the players maintained a competitive spirit throughout the game.

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This victory is particularly significant as it not only enhances Clemson's NCAA Tournament prospects but also marks the first time in 25 years that the team has achieved double-digit wins in ACC play. The win against Duke is seen as a "Quad 1" victory, which is critical for NCAA Tournament selection criteria. Clemson's current record stands at 19-9 overall and 10-6 in the ACC, moving them off the NCAA Tournament bubble.

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Head coach Shawn Poppie, who recently received a five-year contract extension, emphasized the importance of the win in building the program's future. He stated, “We’re trying to build a program, and to get a big win like this at home... goes to show all the hard work behind the scenes.” Kohn reflected on her connection with Poppie during the game, saying, “I just have to look him in the eye, and I know it’s go time.”

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Following this landmark victory, Clemson will face a challenging road trip to California, where they will compete against the University of California and Stanford before heading to the ACC Tournament starting March 4 in Duluth, Georgia. NCAA Selection Sunday is scheduled for March 15, 2026, which will determine the tournament field for both men's and women's basketball.

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While the victory is celebrated, some analysts caution that the team's performance must remain consistent as they approach the NCAA Tournament. The pressure of maintaining their current form against strong opponents in the upcoming games will be crucial for their success.

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• “They were loud and played a huge part in us getting over the hump.” — Shawn Poppie, Head Coach

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• “He was like, ‘Let’s go, let’s go, as we got it,’ and he gave me that push.” — Mia Moore, Senior Guard

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Clemson's recent success under Poppie indicates a promising future for the program, as they aim to solidify their place in NCAA history.

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