Dillon Hunter Scores Career-High 17 as Clemson Dominates Florida State

Chase Hunter dribbles up court during Clemson's win at Virginia Tech on January 25, 2025. (Photo By: Charles Mays/Tiger View Media)

The Clemson Tigers improved to 21-5 overall and 13-2 in ACC play with a commanding 72-46 victory over the Florida State Seminoles. The loss drops Florida State to 15-10 overall and 6-8 in ACC competition.

Dillon Hunter’s Career Day Fuels Clemson’s Dominance

Dillon Hunter delivered a career-high 17 points, shooting 7-of-10 from the field and 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. With this win, Clemson solidifies its spot in the NCAA Tournament, just a year after their memorable Elite Eight run.

Defensive Brilliance Leads the Way

The Tigers showcased their defensive dominance, holding the Seminoles to 34% shooting from the field and a dismal 13.3% from three-point range.

First Half: Clemson’s Early Surge

Clemson set the tone defensively, forcing multiple early turnovers. The offense followed suit, igniting with an Ian Schieffelin dunk to cap off a 10-2 run six minutes into the game. By the first media timeout, Clemson led 16-7, fueled by Schieffelin’s early seven points and Florida State’s four turnovers.

Out of the timeout, the Tigers intensified their attack. A shifty move from Del Jones and a Chauncey Wiggins 10-foot jumper pushed the lead to 13 points just nine minutes in. Brad Brownell’s coaching move to start Dillon Hunter in the last three games has paid dividends, and probably one of his best decisions in his career, as Hunter contributed 12 first-half points, six by the eight minute mark.

Hunter’s impact continued, drilling back-to-back threes to extend the lead to 18 points with 5:44 left in the first half. From 8:22 to 2:34, Clemson held Florida State scoreless, building a 34-14 advantage. The Seminoles finally broke their 7:28-minute drought with a Jamir Watkins layup, but Clemson maintained a 36-19 halftime lead. The Tigers forced 10 turnovers while holding FSU to 32% shooting from the field and 22.2% from beyond the arc.

Second Half: Clemson Maintains Control

Florida State showed some life, making their first shot of the half and drawing a foul on Ian Schieffelin to get to the line. By the under-16 timeout, the Seminoles trimmed the deficit to 17 points with 15:20 remaining.

However, Clemson continued to dominate. Florida State entered the bonus just seven minutes into the second half, giving them opportunities at the free-throw line. Dillon Hunter’s stellar performance continued, as a deep three-pointer gave him 17 points and four assists with 10 minutes to play.

Meanwhile, Chase Hunter struggled offensively, going 0-for-7 from the field and 0-for-5 from three in the first 32 minutes. Despite that, Clemson still led by 22 at the under-8 timeout.

Final Push and Statement Victory

The Tigers put the final nail in the coffin when Ian Schieffelin’s emphatic slam extended the lead to 25 points with under three minutes left. The final score: Clemson 72, Florida State 46, securing a dominant 26-point victory.

Clemson’s Balanced Play Secures Statement Win

Despite struggling from three-point range (29.6% from beyond the arc), Clemson’s elite defense and efficient offense overwhelmed Florida State. Holding the Seminoles to 34% shooting from the field and 13.3% from three, the Tigers proved they can win in multiple ways.

What’s Next?

Clemson looks to continue their strong season as they face SMU on Saturday, February 22, at 4:00 PM ET on the ACC Network.