Tyrese Hunter's clutch 3-pointer seals Memphis' comeback against Clemson
- Memphis overcame a late-game deficit to force overtime, displaying resilience.
- Tyrese Hunter's performance included crucial 3-pointers that were pivotal in overtime.
- The victory serves as a rebound for Memphis after a recent loss and is likely to affect both teams' rankings.
In Clemson, South Carolina, on a Saturday, December 14, 2024, the Memphis Tigers faced off against the No. 16-ranked Clemson Tigers in an intense college basketball matchup. Tyrese Hunter was the standout performer for Memphis, contributing significantly with 23 points during the game. His performance included key three-point shots that turned the tide in favor of Memphis during the overtime period. Just before the end of regulation, Hunter made a crucial three-pointer with 59.3 seconds left, helping Memphis secure an 87-82 win over the previously undefeated Clemson. Memphis had entered the game on a less favorable note, having lost a recent game to Arkansas State, which had resulted in their drop from the national rankings. The team's resilience was evident as they shook off that defeat and executed a strategic comeback against Clemson. Trailing late in the second half, Memphis scored nine points to three from Clemson, forcing an extra five minutes of play. The game featured moments of tension, particularly when Clemson's Chase Hunter scored a three-pointer to take a 72-67 lead late in the second half, but Memphis responded quickly, showing their fighting spirit. In overtime, after some back-and-forth scoring, it was Tyrese Hunter who broke an 80-80 tie by sinking another three-pointer assisted by PJ Haggerty. This shot was instrumental as it shifted momentum firmly into the hands of Memphis. Colby Rogers also contributed a solid performance, adding 22 points with several big shots from behind the arc, demonstrating Memphis’s overall offensive prowess. Despite a strong performance from Clemson's Viktor Lakhin, who recorded 23 points and 11 rebounds, the team struggled to maintain their composure in the critical moments of the game. The defeat was significant for Clemson, marking their first loss of the season while ranked, and raises questions about how the team will rebound from this setback. For Memphis, the win serves as a confidence booster and could potentially propel them back into the national rankings as they look forward to their next challenge against Virginia during the week.