2005 Clemson Tigers Basketball Preview

2005 Clemson Tigers Team Preview

These Tigers are darn good defenders but weak shooters. Clemson was the worst team in the ACC from the free throw line and horrendous at hitting 3-pointers, shooting 33.2%. These figures make the loss of Sharrod Ford and his 14.9 PPG significant.

Coach Oliver Purnell (26-34) is back for his third season with Clemson and continues to recruit athletic, defensive-minded players. Point guard Vernon Hamilton is one of the ACC’s best D-men but really needs a jump shot. On the other hand, sophomore guard Cliff Hammonds is wily and steady on the court and a relatively productive shooter (106 PPG).

There will be a lot of focus on Shawan Robinsion, who is the leading scorer of all returning players (10.8 PPG). Robinson has a good 3-pointer and is a steady ball handler, but last season his shooting game went from boiling hot one game to sub-freezing cold the next. If he can find consistency, the Tigers will become a viable threat on any court at any time.

Under an equal amount of scrutiny will be senior Akin Akingbala at center. At 6’9” and 238 pounds Akingbala is the only Tiger capable of replacing Ford’s 8.2 rebounds per game. Once again, like Robinson, the question is can he rise to the occasion? Last year he revealed at times that he was capable. This year Clemson needs consistent play from Akingbala throughout the entire season and during every game. Although the center will not be expected to make up for Ford’s point totals, he will have to score more than last year’s average of 5.8 a contest.

Clemson has not been to the NCAA since 1998. Last year the Tigers were 16-16 overall, went 5-11 in the ACC, and lost to Texas A&M in the first round of the NIT. If a few of their variables can convert to consistent play, Clemson will better their 9th place ACC finish of last year.

For more info on the 2005 Tigers check out the official Clemson athletic site.