Clemson vs. SMU: Bold Predictions for Tigers’ Critical Tournament Clash
After watching SMU dismantle Syracuse with ease on Wednesday night, Clemson basketball is preparing for a crucial rematch that could boost its NCAA Tournament seeding.
Currently projected as a No. 4 seed, the Tigers wrapped up the regular season inside the top 10, and a deep ACC Tournament run could push them even higher. With the Cooper Flagg injury shaking up the bracket, Clemson’s path just got even more intriguing.
But before looking ahead to potential semifinal or final matchups, let’s break down three bold predictions for Clemson’s showdown with SMU.
1. Clemson Torches SMU from Deep Again
The first meeting between these teams saw Clemson light up SMU from beyond the arc, draining 14 threes on 29 attempts. Expect more of the same Thursday night.
Chase Hunter, Jaeden Zackery, and Ian Schieffelin will all hit at least two three-pointers, and even Dillon Hunter—who struggled in the first matchup—will knock down one or two of his own.
A hot shooting night will give the Tigers major momentum heading into the semifinals—if they take care of business.
2. Clemson Flips the Script on the Glass
SMU dominated the boards in the first matchup, out-rebounding Clemson 39-24. But this time, expect Brad Brownell to make rebounding a major point of emphasis.
Even though Clemson ranks No. 205 nationally in rebounding, and SMU is one of the ACC’s best, the Tigers will hold their own this time.
Prediction: Clemson wins the rebounding battle 38-34.
3. The Tigers Cover the Spread
Oddsmakers have Clemson favored by 6.5 points, which might seem like a wide margin for two 23-plus win teams—but the Tigers are simply better.
And they’ll prove it.
Clemson will cover the spread, notch its 27th win of the season, and strengthen its NCAA Tournament resume with a 78-70 victory.
That sets up a likely ACC Tournament showdown with Louisville on Friday night.
