ACC Basketball: Louisville, Wake Forest rise in updated way-too-early ranking for 2024-25

6. Clemson Tigers

With the “covid year” still around, it can be difficult to know who still has eligibility. Chase Hunter, who started the last two years (12.9 ppg and 3.2 apg), was one of them. And it turns out that he will be back for 6th year since he got a medical redshirt from playing just nine games in 2019-20.

That’s important for a Clemson team that lost its two star scorers, PJ Hall and guard Joe Girard III. Replacing him is BC transfer Jaeden Zackery, who averaged 11.3 ppg and 4.2 apg last season. Jake Heidbreder missed all of last season but averaged over 15 ppg at Air Force on over 40% shooting from deep. Incoming freshmen guards Ace Buckner and Del Jones fills out the rotation as well.

Despite Hall being gone, the Tigers have some good depth inside, led by returning starting forward, Ian Schieffelin. Cincy transfer Viktor Lakhin is a big body and interior anchor, while Christian Reeves comes over from Duke, looking for more playing time. Myles Foster comes over from Indiana State as a combo forward, capable of playing the 3 and 4 spots.

With Hunter back as a lead guard, Clemson’s backcourt went from potentially shaky to a possible strength. But there is also a possible lack of starpower that can limit their chances of landing a top spot in the ACC.