As the Clemson Tigers men’s basketball team gears up for the 2025-2026 season, their roster is undergoing a major overhaul. With the loss of key veterans such as Chase Hunter, Ian Schieffelin, and Viktor Lakhin, the Tigers are embarking on a new chapter that demands significant contributions from both returning players and incoming recruits.
Key Needs in the Transfer Portal: Center: While Christian Reeves shows promise, the team lacks a dependable backup if he takes on the starting role. Securing another big man is the highest priority. Shooting: Although Clemson has depth in most positions, adding another shooter could enhance their offensive capabilities. Experience: The Tigers are counting on several players without any college experience—six out of eleven scholarship players are untested at this level. If there’s an opportunity to bring in a third or fourth scholarship player through the portal, it should be allocated to experienced individuals.
Departing Veterans: Chase Hunter: An electrifying guard and leader, his departure creates a significant gap in the backcourt. Ian Schieffelin: A versatile 6’8” forward who played a vital role on both offense and defense. Viktor Lakhin: A formidable 6’11”, 245-pound center whose impact in the paint was transformative.
- G Dillon Hunter (Senior, 6’3”) – A seasoned veteran in the backcourt.
- G Jake Heidbreder (Senior, 6’5”, 180 lbs) – A reliable shooter who will be counted on for outside scoring.
- G Del Jones (Sophomore, 6’2”) – Anticipated to make strides after a promising freshman year.
- G Ace Buckner (Sophomore, 6’3”, 170 lbs) – A strong defensive player with yet-to-be-explored offensive abilities.
- F Chauncey Wiggins (Senior, 6’10”) – His versatility will be crucial as Clemson works to rebuild its front line.
- F Dallas Thomas (Sophomore, 6’8”) – Expected to contribute energy and rebounding to the team.
- C Christian Reeves (Junior, 7’1”) – Currently the only center on the roster.
Incoming Recruits
- G Zac Foster (6’3”, 180 lbs) – An exciting scoring guard poised to make an early impact.
- F Chase Thompson (6’8”, 220 lbs) – A strong forward reminiscent of Hunter Tyson’s playing style.
- C Trent Steinour (6’9”, 195 lbs) – A rim protector who will add valuable size to the team.
Where Does Clemson Go From Here? As Clemson lacks a standout, multi-year superstar to rely on, the team must adopt a collective approach to winning. Senior players like Hunter, Heidbreder, and Wiggins need to step up as leaders, while younger talents such as Jones, Buckner, and Reeves must demonstrate their readiness for larger responsibilities.
The success of this squad will depend on player development and team chemistry. Without a definitive go-to scorer, the question remains: will someone rise as the new face of Clemson basketball, or will this transitional season expose the team’s inexperience?
One thing is certain: the Tigers are still in the process of constructing their roster. The transfer portal will be crucial in addressing their most pressing needs before the season begins.
Jaeden Zackery’s Eligibility Update Regarding Jaeden Zackery and the potential for an additional year of eligibility, recent NCAA regulations have allowed for extra years in specific situations. After hitting a career-high of 24 points in his latest game, Zackery mentioned that the coaching staff is “looking into” the possibility of him gaining another year of eligibility as a JUCO player. If approved, Zackery expressed his eagerness: “I would definitely love to come back here for another year,” he stated.
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