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ACC Basketball power rankings: Clemson rises, while Notre Dame tumbles

By Tristan Freeman

Clemson players celebrate after the 101-94 two overtime win over Penn State University at Littlejohn Coliseum Tuesday, November 29, 2022.Clemson Basketball Vs Penn State University Acc Big 10 Challenge
Clemson players celebrate after the 101-94 two overtime win over Penn State University at Littlejohn Coliseum Tuesday, November 29, 2022.Clemson Basketball Vs Penn State University Acc Big 10 Challenge /
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ACC Basketball
Louisville’s El Ellis Jf Ul Lipscomb Aj6t1807 /

Of all the power conferences, ACC Basketball may be the craziest to this point. The preseason top teams were Duke, North Carolina, and Virginia, who all each have already two losses in league play. Those who don’t have a loss are Pittsburgh and Clemson, the lone unbeaten teams at the moment. And by the end of the weekend, there will be one guaranteed to stay without a loss.

Looking at how the teams have played in the past couple of weeks as well as the overall resume, here’s my best guess at who the best and worst teams in the ACC are. And thanks to Syracuse for at least keeping the bottom intact.

15. Louisville Cardinals – 2-13 (0-4)

After a two-game win streak over Western Kentucky and Florida A&M, there looked like the Cardinals had some hope coming back into ACC play. But after losing to Lipscomb and then getting blown out by Kentucky, they looked back to their old selves.

But never underestimate the power of home conference games. Louisville went toe-to-toe with Syracuse, getting an early lead and staying with them all the way until the very end. Unfortunately for the Cardinals, El Ellis couldn’t get off a shot in the last second to lose, 70-69. Ellis once again had a big game, going for 20 points and nine assists. And he got some help with Michael James scoring 19 on 7/12 shooting.

The good news is that Louisville has shown that they’re capable of winning games in ACC Basketball. The question now is when? The Cardinals’ next opportunity is at home against Wake Forest, followed by Clemson, UNC, and Pittsburgh.