Syracuse Falls to Clemson in ACC Showdown Despite Starling’s 17-Point First Half

CLEMSON, S.C. — The Syracuse Orange struggled to contain Clemson‘s high-powered offense, falling 42-29 in the first half of their ACC matchup Wednesday night at Littlejohn Coliseum. Despite a strong start from guard JJ Starling, who scored 17 points in the opening half, Syracuse couldn’t overcome Clemson’s efficient shooting and defensive pressure.

Starling opened the game with a jump shot and added a three-pointer early, but Clemson responded with a balanced attack. The Tigers shot 64% from the floor in the first half, led by Chase Hunter and Ian Schieffelin, who combined for 16 points. Clemson’s defense also forced six Syracuse turnovers, converting them into six points.

“We knew coming in that Clemson was one of the best three-point shooting teams in the conference,” said Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim. “They showed that tonight, and we didn’t do enough to disrupt their rhythm.”

Clemson extended its lead with a 12-2 run midway through the half, capped by a triple from Del Jones. Syracuse’s Eddie Lampkin tried to keep the Orange in the game with two layups, but Clemson’s Viktor Lakhin blocked two shots and anchored the Tigers’ defense.

Syracuse entered the game with momentum after a 17-point comeback win against Notre Dame on Jan. 18. Starling, who scored 21 points in that game, continued his strong play, but the Orange struggled to find consistent offense beyond him. Lampkin, who recorded his fourth straight double-double against Notre Dame, was limited to four points in the first half.

Clemson, ranked second in the ACC, improved to 14-4 overall and 6-1 in conference play. The Tigers have now won three straight against Syracuse and hold a 10-6 all-time advantage in the series. Syracuse, meanwhile, fell to 9-10 overall and 3-5 in the ACC.

The game was broadcast live on ACC Network, with fans able to stream the action online. Syracuse returns to action Saturday against Louisville, while Clemson faces Miami on the road.