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GREENVILLE, S.C. — The Furman Paladins gave the Clemson Tigers everything they could handle in the first half, building a two-point halftime lead and igniting hope of a potential upset. But Clemson’s size, depth, and late-game execution proved too much, as the Tigers pulled away in the second half for a 76‑58 victory.
Paladins Shine Early in High-Energy First Half
The game began at a fast pace, with both teams trading baskets and the crowd at Timmons Arena buzzing with excitement. Early miscues and missed layups kept the score tight. Clemson led briefly at 7‑6 with 5:50 remaining in the first, but Chantelle Stuart responded with a confident three-pointer to put Furman ahead 9‑7.
Clemson’s Hannah Kohn hit multiple threes to close the first quarter, giving the Tigers a 20‑11 lead, despite Furman’s energy and effort. Furman’s Rachel McGowan and Brooklyn King helped keep the Paladins close, forcing turnovers and hitting timely shots, including a three-pointer by King to bring the score to 22‑19 early in the second quarter.
Momentum began shifting in Furman’s favor as Lauren Bailey knocked down consecutive triples, tying the game at 26 and energizing the home crowd. Furman closed the half on a high note, with Bailey’s last three of the half putting the Paladins ahead 33‑31 at intermission.
Clemson Pulls Away With Big Inside Game in Second Half
Clemson came out of the break more physical, pounding the paint and using post feeds to control the glass. Mia Moore and Rachael Rose keyed the Tigers’ inside scoring, helping Clemson regain the lead and eventually build a double-digit advantage. Furman’s Clare Coyle converted a mid-range jumper early in the third to keep the Paladins close, but Clemson’s consistent interior execution and transition points kept the Tigers ahead.
Paladins Battle, But Turnovers Hurt
Furman continued to fight back, with Lauren Bailey knocking down a jumper in the fourth quarter to make it 74‑57 and showing the kind of perimeter firepower that has made her a key contributor all season. Chantelle Stuart added a late free throw, but Clemson’s defensive pressure forced Furman into costly turnovers, converting them into easy transition points. The Tigers’ depth and bench scoring also helped them weather any Furman surges.
Key Stats and Player Performances
- Lauren Bailey (Furman): 16 points, 5‑6 FG, 5‑5 3‑point shooting in 37 minutes.
- Chantelle Stuart (Furman): 13 points, 6 rebounds.
- Clare Coyle (Furman): 6 points, 4 rebounds.
- Furman shot 44.4% from the field (20‑45) and a remarkable 72.7% from three (8‑11).
- Clemson dominated points in the paint (34‑22) and fast-break points (11‑6) and converted 25 points off Furman turnovers.
- Bench production favored Clemson 22‑16, a factor in sustaining the Tigers’ lead.
Looking Ahead
Despite the loss, Furman showed it can compete with top-tier ACC programs. The Paladins’ perimeter shooting, energy, and resilience will be key to turning performances like this into wins. To take the next step, Furman will need to tighten turnovers, defend the paint more effectively, and finish stronger in the closing minutes.
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