25. Clemson (14-3)
Much as was the case last season, Clemson seems to be putting themselves in a good position right as ACC play gets going. The Tigers certainly aren’t known for their basketball but Brad Brownell has quietly done a very solid job with this program in recent years. Clemson’s early losses were regrettable, though they pushed both Alabama and BYU to the brink and have wins over Georgia and West Virginia.
Clemson added another impressive showing this week with Wednesday’s 74-70 win over ranked SMU. RJ Gofrey had 17 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge as the Tigers held serve on their home court. On the road this weekend, the Tigers persevered again, this time winning 76-61 at Notre Dame. This time around it was Jestin Porter with the standout effort putting up 26 points in the road win.
The Tigers have now won seven in a row since that close loss to BYU in early December and that 4-0 start in ACC play isn’t anything to snuff at either. This team is trending in a fantastic direction in nearly every aspect and put up some of their most efficient offensive performances this week. What’s even better for the Tigers is that their next three games are all at home, beginning with Boston College this upcoming Tuesday.