Pitt-Clemson: Open Game Thread

Opponent: Clemson

Conference: ACC

Current Record: 16-11 (6-8)

Last Game: Feb 23 76-66 W vs Boston College

2017 Season: 25-10 (11-7) 3rd

Key Losses: G Gabe DeVoe (14.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg, graduation) F Donte Grantham (14.2 ppg 6.9 rpg, graduation)

Key Returners: G Marcquise Reed, G Shelton Mitchell, F Elijah Thomas

Last Meeting: Jan 29 Pitt 69 Clemson 82

What we said in the recap: “I have been one of many that’s gotten on Wilson-Frame for his inconsistency. But I also respect the job he’s out there trying to do in providing some leadership to a very young group. I’ve seen him do similar things on the court this year and, while it’s his job to some degree, I also want to respect him for at least doing it. A few games back, he had a miserable performance and, instead of ignoring it, took to Twitter to say that he would be better. That’s leadership, regardless of what you think about him as a player. We can debate his effectiveness and criticizing his actual play is more than fair. However, I commend him for also appearing to be somewhat of a stabilizing force when things break down, as they did tonight.”

Prediction: Clemson, a team ranked 257th in 3P% on the year (.330) shot 14-27 from deep in the first meeting. Here’s hoping that doesn’t happen for Pitt playing at home. Stopping Reed is obviously the key for anyone playing Clemson. He had 26 in the first meeting. If Pitt can keep him under his season average (19.2), then they have a much better chance. I think they do it. They have to win one of these, right? Pitt 72 Clemson 68

Hail to Pitt.