Louisville had chances late, but Clemson did just enough down the stretch to close out an 80–75 win in a game that swung on efficiency, free throws, and a handful of decisive moments in the final seconds.
The Cardinals shot a respectable 45-percent from the field and stayed aggressive offensively, but the long ball never truly came around. Louisville went 10-for-36 from three, and while a late triple kept hope alive, the volume and misses added up over 40 minutes.
Clemson, meanwhile, made the most of its opportunities. The Tigers shot nearly 50-percent from the floor and were far more effective when it mattered most at the free throw line. Clemson attempted 34 free throws and converted 24 of them, a massive edge in a five-point game. That advantage showed late, as the Tigers calmly absorbed pressure and kept the scoreboard moving even when Louisville surged. Clemson also took better care of the ball, committing just nine turnovers and turning Louisville miscues into 16 points.
The closing sequence summed it up. Louisville drilled a clutch three with two seconds left to pull within striking distance, but Clemson responded by putting the ball in the hands of Buckner, who knocked down a free throw with one second remaining to effectively seal it.
Louisville’s last foul forced another attempt, but the damage was already done. Despite winning the rebounding battle and finishing strong offensively with three straight made field goals, Louisville couldn’t overcome Clemson’s composure and efficiency when the game tightened. In a matchup this close, the margins in free throws, shot selection, and late game execution told the story.
Louisville was led by Adrian Wooley who scored 17 and Ryan Conwell who scored 16. Clemson’s Jestin Porter led the Tigers with 16 points and RJ Godfrey with 13 points.
Louisville plays their last home game of the season against Syracuse on Tuesday night
