Clemson used a 14-0 run over a three-minute period late ini the second half to turn a nine-point deficit into a five-point lead, and the Tigers went on from there to a 77-76 win over UAB in Asheville.
The Tigers trailed 67-58 with 7:01 to play. Ian Schieffelin started the rally with a dunk and a free throw. Next game three-pointers by Chase Hunter, Chaucey Wiggins and Shieffelin. PJ Hall capped the rally with a layup with 3:48 left for a 72-67 lead.
UAB retook the lead with back-to-back threes. Hall then put the Tigers on top 75-73 with 0:29 left with an offensive rebound, stick back and free throw. The Blazers then knocked down another three-pointer with 0:09 on the clock for a 76-75 advantage.
Following a UAB timeout, the Tigers got the ball to Hunter who was fouled going to the basket with 0:03 to play. Hunter made both free throws for a 77-76 lead, and the Blazers were off target with a desperation shot at the buzzer.
Hall, who played a career high 35 minutes, led the Tigers with 27 points and nine rebounds. He also had three blocks, two steals and two assists. Hunter added 16 points and four assists.
The Tigers were outscored from three 27 to 18, but that made up for most of that at the foul line outscoring the Blazers 17-11. Clemson was whistled for 16 fouls to 23 against UAB. Clemson was outrebounded by 13, and outscored in second chance points 17-7, but they won in the paint 34-22.
The Tigers are 2-0 and will face Davidson Sunday at 3:00 PM for the championship of the Asheville Tournament.
