Clemson's Roar Dampened by Alabama's Tide in Elite Eight Showdown

The Clemson Tigers, unranked and determined, faced off against the 19th-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide in a high-stakes Elite Eight matchup. The final score read 89-82 in favor of the Crimson Tide, with both teams showing impressive resolve throughout the game. The Tigers now hold a record of 0-1 in this stage of the tournament while Alabama advances with a record of 1-0.

The Tigers came out strong in the first half, putting up 32 points to Alabama's 35. However, it was during the second half that Clemson truly turned up the heat, scoring an impressive 50 points. Despite their efforts and a higher second-half score than their opponents who scored 54 points after halftime, it wasn't enough to secure victory.

Clemson showcased some solid statistics throughout the game: they achieved a field goal percentage of 48 with an impressive two-point shooting percentage at 58 percent. They were also able to convert eight three-pointers at a rate of 31 percent from beyond the arc. However, free throws were less successful for Clemson as they made only half of their attempts from the line.

On defense and on-court hustle plays, Clemson managed six steals and blocked two shots but fell short compared to Alabama's six blocks. The rebounding battle was also tough for Clemson; they grabbed a total of 33 rebounds—20 defensive and eight offensive—while allowing Alabama to collect more with a total count at 44 rebounds.

In terms of ball movement and discipline, Clemson recorded fifteen assists but committed twenty personal fouls which led to one player being fouled out. Their turnover ratio stood positive though; they turned over possession just eight times while forcing thirteen turnovers from Alabama which resulted in fifteen points off turnovers for Clemson.

Alabama’s performance was marked by efficiency from three-point range where they shot an outstanding forty-four percent making sixteen threes. They also capitalized on second-chance opportunities scoring fifteen second-chance points compared to just six by Clemson.

As fans reflect on this hard-fought contest that took place at Crypto.com Arena before an audience numbering nineteen thousand two hundred twenty-seven spectators, it is clear that both teams left everything on court during this regional clash.