The first game of the 2014 U.S. Virgin Island Paradise Jam ended with a late-game collapse that could only be described as #Clemsoning. With a minute remaining, Clemson led Gardner Webb by five at 68-63. The Tigers ended up losing 72-70, the second time this week they have been defeated by a Big South opponent.
Tyler Strange was a one-man comeback with two free throws, a steal, followed by two more free throws to make it a one-point game with 33 seconds remaining. Rod Hall made two free throws to make it 70-67. Strange was able to create an opening at the top of the key with a shot fake, drilling the game-tying triple. This is where Clemson called a timeout with 6.6 second remaining. However, the Tigers didn’t have one and were issued a technical foul.
The Bulldogs hit both free throws and while Clemson had several close-range looks, it could not force overtime.
Gardner-Webb will play the winner of Seton Hall-Nevada on Saturday. Clemson will play the loser of that game.
On Monday night, Clemson lost to Winthrop at home. Next Friday, Clemson hosts another Big South opponent, High Point, a conference favorite.