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When: Wednesday, March 8, approx. 2:30 p.m.
Where: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, N.Y.
How to watch: ESPN, WatchESPN app
Clemson put together a largely solid performance in its ACC Tournament opener with a 75-61 win over NC State. The Tigers were powered by 22 points each from Jaron Blossomgame and Shelton Mitchell and also played better defense than they have for much of the season.
The competition takes a decided step up today, as Clemson advances to face No. 5 seed Duke. The Tigers lost a hard-fought battle at Cameron Indoor earlier this season and have proven they are certainly capable of competing with the Blue Devils.
Attacking Duke with the drive and post feeds is paramount to Clemson finding offensive success today, and knocking down open looks is of course always critical when facing a quality opponent.
Duke always loves to try to break down the defense with drives and kick for open threes, so the Tigers will not only need to limit the Blue Devils’ ability to get into the paint, but also not over-commit with help and force them to make tough shots in the paint rather than allow wide-open looks from three-point range.
Clemson will look to avenge its close February loss and stay alive in the ACC Tournament.