Clemson Tigers junior guard Dillon Hunter suffered a significant setback during the ACC Tournament quarterfinals against SMU on Thursday night.
Midway through the first half, Hunter exited the game due to a right-hand injury and did not return. What did Clemson say about their players’ injury?
Clemson Coach Brad Brownell Speaks On Dillon Hunter’s Injury
Post-game, Clemson coach Brad Brownell expressed concerns about the severity of Dillon Hunter’s injury.
Clemson coach Brad Brownell on G Dillon Hunter’s status: “I don’t think it’s good. He probably broke his hand.” Hunter was ruled out with a finger injury after leaving midway through the first half w/ injury
— Chapel Fowler (@chapelfowler) March 14, 2025
“I don’t think it’s good. He probably broke his hand,” Brownell said during the press conference.
Hunter’s injury comes at a pivotal moment for the Tigers. Prior to the game against SMU, Coach Brownell made a strategic adjustment by reinstating Hunter into the starting lineup, replacing forward Chauncey Wiggins, who had started in the previous game against Virginia Tech.
Throughout the season, Hunter has been a contributor for the Clemson Tigers, averaging 5.6 points per game on 40% shooting and two assists. His defensive prowess and playmaking abilities have been instrumental in Clemson’s successful 27-5 record.
In the limited eight minutes he played against SMU, Hunter was unable to score, highlighting the immediate impact of his absence on the court.
Clemson’s Upcoming Challenges
The Tigers are set to face No. 2 seed Louisville (26-6) in the ACC Tournament semifinals on Friday at 9:30 p.m. ET. Hunter’s potential absence presents a significant challenge for Clemson as they prepare to compete against a formidable opponent.
In the locker room following the SMU game, Hunter was seen with an ice bag on his right hand. He is scheduled to undergo X-rays on Friday to determine the exact nature and severity of the injury. The results of these scans will be crucial in assessing his availability for the remainder of the ACC Tournament and the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
Should Hunter be sidelined, Brownell will need to explore alternative lineup configurations. One potential adjustment could involve increasing playing time for junior guard Chase Hunter, Dillon’s older brother, who has demonstrated leadership and scoring ability throughout the season.
Additionally, freshman guard Del Jones may see an expanded role. Jones has shown flashes of potential, notably contributing nine crucial points in a recent victory over Virginia Tech.
Forward Chauncey Wiggins, who was part of the starting lineup against Virginia Tech, might also be called upon to provide versatility and depth. His ability to stretch the floor with perimeter shooting could offer a different offensive dynamic in Hunter’s absence.
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The outcome of Hunter’s X-rays will significantly influence Clemson’s strategy moving forward. A confirmed fracture could sideline him for an extended period, impacting the Tigers’ rotation and defensive schemes.
Conversely, a less severe diagnosis might allow for a quicker return, albeit with considerations for his effectiveness and risk of aggravation.
As Clemson prepares for the ACC semifinals and eyes a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, the health and availability of key players like Dillon Hunter will be paramount. The team’s ability to adapt and rally in the face of adversity will play a crucial role in their pursuit of championship aspirations.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring updates on Hunter’s condition, understanding that his presence on the court significantly bolsters Clemson’s chances against top-tier competition.
In the high-stakes environment of March basketball, the Tigers’ depth, resilience, and strategic adjustments will be under the spotlight as they strive to overcome this latest challenge.
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