Clemson bounced back from its opening-game loss with a dominant 79-45 victory over Presbyterian College at Littlejohn Coliseum, Thursday night. The Tigers received contributions from a number of players, but sophomore guard John Newman III led the way with 16 points in just 20 minutes of action. After struggling to find the range in the opener and hitting just 24% of its 3-pointers against Virginia Tech, Clemson excelled from behind the arc, knocking down 41% of its 3-pointers against Presbyterian.

Newman was one of four Tigers in double figures, joining senior guards Tevin Mack (14), Curran Scott (13) and freshman guard Chase Hunter (13). Forward Aamir Simms was held scoreless, missing all four of his shot attempts, but did lead Clemson with eight rebounds. Brad Brownell’s squad set the tone with defense, limiting the Blue Hose to 35% shooting and forcing 21 turnovers. After building a 43-21 halftime lead, Brownell was able to use his reserves. Eleven Tigers got on the scoreboard and the bench scored 32 of the team’s 79 points.

Brownell praised his team’s ball movement and ability to find the open man, “I think we spread the ball around well, when we got the lead guys weren’t selfish and still spread the ball around and took good shots.”

Clemson (1-1) next plays host to Colgate at 3 p.m., Sunday.

Final stats

Brad Brownell press conference