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Clemson Falls to Duke, Eyes NCAA Tournament Hope

3/14/2026

50 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Clemson University men's basketball lost to Duke 73-61 in the ACC Tournament semifinals.
Clemson shot 35% and trailed by as much as 19 points after Duke opened with a 22-3 run.
RJ Godfrey led Clemson with 18 points, while Jestin Porter added 12 and Ace Buckner 11.
Clemson shifts focus to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Tournament, where the Tigers are expected to participate for the third consecutive year.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA expanded its basketball tournament to 68 teams in 2011, enhancing opportunities for schools like Clemson University, which made its third consecutive tournament appearance in 2023. This change, part of the broader "March Madness" phenomenon, has fostered inclusivity and excitement in college basketball, significantly impacting recruitment and fan engagement across the nation.

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Story summary

Clemson University men's basketball lost to Duke 73-61 in the ACC Tournament semifinals.
Clemson shot 35% and trailed by as much as 19 points after Duke opened with a 22-3 run.
RJ Godfrey led Clemson with 18 points, while Jestin Porter added 12 and Ace Buckner 11.
Clemson shifts focus to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Tournament, where the Tigers are expected to participate for the third consecutive year.

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