Clemson men’s basketball climbs ESPN’s updated power rankings

Clemson’s résumé took a small hit in the standings this week, but the Tigers’ national outlook continues to trend upward.

ESPN released its latest men’s college basketball power rankings, and Clemson checked in at No. 21, a two-spot jump from its previous position. The rise came even after Tuesday night’s 80–76 overtime defeat to NC State at Littlejohn Coliseum.

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The loss was notable for several reasons. It was Clemson’s first setback in ACC play this season and just its fourth overall, moving the Tigers to 16–4 and 6–1 in the conference. It also ended a lengthy stretch of success that included nine straight wins, a program-best 14-game ACC regular-season winning streak dating back to last year, and an unblemished home record this season before NC State’s visit.

According to ESPN’s Jeff Borzello, the game stood out because it came on an unusual night for one of the league’s most reliable defenses.

“Clemson’s nine-game winning streak was snapped Tuesday when NC State came to town and handed the Tigers their first ACC loss of the season,” Borzello wrote. “It was a difficult night for the ACC’s most efficient defense. The Tigers allowed 1.12 points per possession, the most an opponent has scored against them since Alabama back on Dec. 3. NC State also turned the ball over just seven times in 45 minutes, the lowest turnover percentage anyone has had against Clemson all season.”

Clemson will have a quick chance to turn the page on Saturday with a road matchup against Georgia Tech. Tipoff is scheduled for noon on ACC Network.