ATLANTA: Clemson looked nothing like itself in a 76-58 loss to Loyola Chicago as part of Holiday Hoopsgiving at State Farm Arena, Saturday. After showcasing remarkable offensive efficiency in a four-game winning streak, the Tigers suddenly lost their touch, hitting on just 3 of 21 shots from behind the arc.
Clemson took an early lead, but it was quickly wiped away and never regained as the Ramblers had their way with the Tigers defense. While Clemson struggled to knock down jumpers, Loyola ran its offense with precision, resulting in clean looks from the perimeter. Loyola knocked down 12 of its 24 3-pointers and shot 56% from the floor overall.
In his postgame comments, Brad Brownell said, “We got behind and I think for the first time all year, we panicked. We pressed and took some quick shots. We got put on our heels and didn’t respond. Probably got what we deserved.”
P.J. Hall (7 points) had his three-game streak of scoring 20 or more snapped and Hunter Tyson (10 points) failed to hit a 3-pointer, missing all five of his attempts from long range. Chase Hunter led Clemson with 13 points.
Clemson (8-3) will get a week to lick its wounds before a matchup with Richmond in the Greenville Winter Invitational. Tipoff from the Bon Secours Wellness Arena between the Tigers and the Spiders is set for Saturday, Dec. 17th at 7 p.m.
