The Clemson Tigers continued their dominant form in the ACC, securing a hard-fought 69-59 victory over the Miami Hurricanes on January 17, 2026. This win marked Clemson's ninth consecutive victory and maintained their perfect record in ACC play. The game, held at Littlejohn Coliseum, showcased the Tigers' resilience and defensive prowess, which ultimately proved decisive in their triumph over the Hurricanes.
The Clemson Tigers, ranked No. 22, showcased their offensive capabilities with a well-rounded performance. Carter Welling, a standout player for the Tigers, scored a season-high 18 points, while Jestin Porter added 11 points to the team's total. The Tigers' defense was particularly impressive, as they forced 16 turnovers from the Hurricanes and collected 12 steals, effectively disrupting Miami's offensive rhythm.
Miami, who entered the game with a 10-game winning streak, found themselves on the wrong end of a defensive masterclass by Clemson. Despite their efforts, the Hurricanes struggled to keep up with the Tigers' intensity and precision. The loss snapped Miami's impressive run and handed them their first defeat in ACC play.
Clemson's victory was not just about individual performances but also about team cohesion. The Tigers displayed a high level of synergy, particularly in their defensive strategy, which disrupted Miami's game plan. The Hurricanes, who had been riding a wave of momentum, were unable to find a rhythm against Clemson's stifling defense.
The offensive contributions from Carter Welling and Jestin Porter were pivotal in maintaining the Tigers' lead. Welling's aggressive play and Porter's consistent scoring provided the necessary spark to keep Miami at bay. The Tigers' ability to execute under pressure and maintain their composure in critical moments was evident throughout the game.
The matchup between the Clemson Tigers and the Miami Hurricanes was a testament to the competitive nature of the ACC. Both teams entered the game with impressive records, and the outcome was far from predictable. However, Clemson's superior defensive strategy and individual performances proved to be the difference-makers in this high-stakes encounter.
Looking ahead, both teams will look to build on this performance as they continue their ACC campaigns. While the Hurricanes will aim to rebound from this loss and regain their winning momentum, the Tigers will look to maintain their perfect conference record and extend their winning streak. The ACC remains one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball, and every game presents an opportunity for teams to showcase their skills and climb the ranks.
