CLEMSON BASKETBALL

Clemson will likely fall out of the top-25 if they fall at FSU Saturday, leaving some ground to make up down the stretch (ACC photo).
Clemson will likely fall out of the top-25 if they fall at FSU Saturday, leaving some ground to make up down the stretch (ACC photo).

Bracket Watch: Post-break slide sending Tigers down seed-line


by - Staff Writer -

Clemson's 9-1 start built up plenty of goodwill and saw NCAA Tournament projections as high as a No. 2-seed, but the two-game slide over the last week has understandably hurt that stock.

The No. 20-ranked Tigers' momentum was stunted by a pause for COVID-19 protocol before last week's 85-50 loss to Virginia and an 83-65 loss at Georgia Tech Wednesday.

Next up will be a challenge to stop the streak at Florida State on Saturday (8-2; No. 19 KenPom rating; 3 p.m./ABC) with Clemson seeking to regain the form that saw a 77-67 win in their Littlejohn Coliseum matchup last month.

Over a series of bracket projections, Clemson averages a 6-seed prediction. CBS Sports projects that and a matchup with a First Four game opponent (Utah State or Arkansas). ESPN is on the lower side with a 7-seed pick versus Seton Hall.

After pacing the ACC last week, Brad Brownell's Tigers slipped to 42nd in the NCAA NET ranking and 45th in the KenPom ratings.

Clemson NCAA Tourney profile

Record: 9-3

NET: 42

KenPom 45

Strength of schedule: 16

Non-conference SOS: 70

Record vs. Quadrant 1 teams*: 3-3

Quadrant 3 or 4 losses: None.

* 1-30 NET teams at home, 1-50 at neutral sites, 1-75 in away games.

Ultimate Level LogoUpgrade Your Account

Unlock premium boards and exclusive features (e.g. ad-free) by upgrading your account today.

Upgrade Now
Comment on this story
Print   
Send Feedback to Brandon Rink: Email | Comment
Clemson chosen for NCAA Men's Golf Tournament for 42nd straight time
Clemson chosen for NCAA Men's Golf Tournament for 42nd straight time
Clemson forward commits to SEC school in transfer portal
Clemson forward commits to SEC school in transfer portal
Former Clemson star can't wait for campus return, wants to stick around with program
Former Clemson star can't wait for campus return, wants to stick around with program
Clemson alumnus' horse will run in the upcoming Kentucky Derby
Clemson alumnus' horse will run in the upcoming Kentucky Derby
Post your comments!