Clemson at Virginia Basketball Preview
By Josh Burton
After getting back in the win column this week with an 83-75 victory at Wake Forest, the University of Virginia Men’s Basketball team is now 14-14 (7-10 in ACC play) and will set its sights on a showdown with #13 Clemson at JPJ on Saturday. This game will serve as Senior Day and is scheduled for a noon tip on ESPN2.
About Clemson
The Clemson Tigers are led by Brad Brownell, in his 15th season. Brownell has a career record of 454-279, including an Elite Eight run last season. This season, the Tigers are 23-5 (15-2 in the ACC). Clemson is in the midst of a 5 game winning streak and coming off an 83-68 victory over Notre Dame.
Clemson is a very experienced team. Seven of their top eight rotation guys are upperclassmen. The Tigers shoot the ball well, with seven of those eight hitting over 35% from deep. They rank eighth nationally in three-point percentage as a team. Brownell opens with the following group.
G - #11 Jaeden Zackery (6’1” Senior, BC transfer, averages 10.9 points and 3.4 assists)
G - #2 Dillon Hunter (6’3” Junior, averages 5.8 points)
G - #1 Chase Hunter (6’4” Covid Senior, averages 16.7 points while hitting 42.8% from three-point range)
F - #4 Ian Schieffelin (6’8” Senior, averages 12.9 points and 9.4 rebounds)
C - Viktor Lakhin (6’11” Senior, Cincinnati transfer, averages 11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds.)
Forward Chauncey Wiggins (6’10” Junior) also plays a key role coming off the bench, averaging 9 points per game.
Two Guards
UVA guards Dai Dai Ames and Isaac McKneely have both been lights out for the Hoos lately. Over the last five games each has scored in double figures every time out. Isaac especially has been a walking bucket, clearing 20 points in three of those five games. For the Hoos to have success in this one, they’ll need their big shot makers taking care of business.
ARob Status
First year forward Anthony Robinson missed the last game with what was listed as a foot injury. His absence left the Hoos very thin up front. They had to play an extended stretch with four guards and Elijah Saunders at the “center” spot.
It is unclear if Robinson will be able to play Saturday. With the talented frontcourt Clemson deploys, his availability could prove crucial.
Senior Day
As mentioned above, Saturday will serve as Senior Day. This year the Hoos will honor Taine Murray and walk-on Bryce Walker. Be sure to be in your seat early for the pregame ceremonies. There is also a plan to “Stripe Out” JPJ. Check the team's official social media account for a map of colors to wear for each section. If you won’t be in attendance, be sure to catch the Locker Room Access Pregame Show on Facebook and YouTube, as always 30 minutes before tip.
(Featured Image Credit: Jamie Holt/UVA Athletics)