Clemson Aims to Extend Win Streak Against Struggling NC State

CLEMSON, S.C. — The Clemson Tigers (17-4, 9-1 ACC) will face the NC State Wolfpack (9-11, 2-7 ACC) on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. ET at Lenovo Center, aiming to extend their five-game win streak and solidify their position in the ACC standings. The game will be broadcast on the CW Network.

Clemson, tied for second in the ACC, is in contention for one of the four ACC Tournament quarterfinal byes. The Tigers are coming off a seven-day break, which has provided crucial recovery time for key players battling injuries and illnesses. Center Viktor Lahkin, guards Chase Hunter and Dillon Hunter, and forward Ian Schieffelin have all been affected by health issues this month.

“The week off has been huge for us,” said Clemson coach Brad Brownell. “We’ve had guys playing through injuries and illnesses, so getting them back to full strength is critical for the final stretch of the season.”

NC State, meanwhile, is struggling, having lost five consecutive games. The Wolfpack, led by guards Marcus Hill (12.8 points per game) and Jayden Taylor (12.5 points per game), have kept games close but have yet to secure a Quadrant 1 win this season. They average just 66.2 points in conference play, the second-lowest in the ACC, but commit the fewest turnovers (84).

Clemson’s strong start to ACC play matches its 2022-23 season, when it began 9-1 but faltered down the stretch, missing the NCAA Tournament. This year, the Tigers face a challenging schedule ahead, including games against No. 2 Duke, North Carolina, and SMU, all of which are projected to make March Madness.

“We’ve been here before, and we know how important it is to finish strong,” said Schieffelin, who has been playing through back spasms and a calf sprain. “We can’t let up now.”

Predicted to win 71-65, Clemson will rely on its defense and timely scoring from Chase Hunter and Schieffelin to overcome a resilient NC State team. The Wolfpack, despite their struggles, have shown the ability to keep games competitive, losing their last five by an average of just 4.8 points.

Fans can stream the game on the CW Network or through various streaming platforms offering free trials. For Clemson, the focus remains on maintaining momentum and securing a top spot in the ACC as the regular season winds down.