Clemson Tigers Lacrosse: Stetson Preview
- Charles Mays
- Feb 16
- 3 min read
Clemson Tigers Lacrosse has started the season strong, scoring 34 goals in just two games—one of the best offensive starts in the program's history. Their scoring efficiency is among the top 15 in the nation, and they have one of the most accurate shooting percentages in the ACC.
In their recent victory over Vanderbilt, Clemson outshot their opponents 33-19, with Lexi Edmonds, Lindsey Marshall, and Kayla MacLeod each achieving hat tricks. This trio has been unstoppable so far, combining for 24 goals, while eight other Tigers have also contributed to the scoring. Edmonds, a graduate transfer, has been a standout, leading the team with 13 points and achieving a career-high five goals against Vanderbilt.
Nationally, Edmonds is already making an impact—she ranks eighth in goals scored (9), fifth in total points (13), and leads the ACC in total points. Her sharpshooting ability is evident, as she ranks second in the ACC and 14th nationally with an 81.8% shot percentage.
Freshman Kira Balis has also made an immediate impact in the draw circle, recording consecutive double-digit draw control games. Thanks to her efforts, Clemson ranks second in the ACC and among the top 15 nationally in draw control efficiency.
Defensively, the Tigers have been equally dominant. Against Davidson, they set a program record with 32 ground balls, led by Summer Agostino, who collected five. Clemson has also forced 27 turnovers this season, with Agostino and Bridget Babcock consistently disrupting opposing offenses.
Key Players to Watch: Clemson
Lexi Edmonds (Attack): A scoring machine who ranks among the best in the nation and the ACC.
Lindsey Marshall & Kayla MacLeod (Attack): Reliable finishers who add depth to Clemson’s offensive firepower.
Kira Balis (Midfield): A force in the draw circle, helping Clemson control possession.
Summer Agostino & Bridget Babcock (Midfield/Defense): Defensive anchors who create turnovers and win ground balls.
Stetson Hatters Lacrosse Overview
Stetson approaches this matchup with a potent offensive lineup, having scored 18 goals in a commanding victory over Butler. However, they faced difficulties in their defeat against Oregon, managing only seven goals. The Hatters are driven by a trio of scoring threats: Kaitlin Pani, Kathleen Nichols, and Miya Scanlan, all of whom have tallied at least four goals this season. Scanlan is the team leader in both points and assists, making her a crucial playmaker.
Stetson has also shown aggression on defense, with Katie Kornacki and Riley Alexander each causing several turnovers. Kornacki has been dominant in the draw circle as well, leading the Hatters with 11 draw controls this season.
In goal, Maddie Eckert has been a reliable presence, making 23 saves with a 47.9% save percentage. Her ability to counter Clemson’s offensive efforts will be vital for keeping Stetson competitive in the game.
The Hatters are led by first-year head coach Sue Murphy, a seasoned veteran in her 19th overall year of coaching, with assistance from coach Georgia Goering.
Key Players to Watch: Stetson
Kaitlin Pani, Kathleen Nichols, and Miya Scanlan (Attack): A trio of dangerous scorers, with Scanlan leading the team in points and assists.
Katie Kornacki and Riley Alexander (Defense/Midfield): Both have been strong in forcing turnovers, while Kornacki leads the team in draw controls with 11.
Maddie Eckert (Goalie): A key player between the pipes, with 23 saves and a 47.9% save rate.
Clemson's Tigers Lacrossee Keys to Victory:
Control Possession: Winning draws and maintaining possession will be crucial to dictating the game's pace.
Efficient Scoring: The Tigers have been clinical in front of goal, and they need to continue capitalizing on high-percentage chances.
Defensive Pressure: Forcing turnovers and keeping Stetson’s offense under control will be key to securing the win.
Minimize Mistakes: Avoiding unforced errors and maintaining discipline will ensure Clemson stays in control.
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