It's that time of year again: Clemson Basketball

 Brad Brownell (clemsontigers.cstv.com)

We are in the final phases of an another agonizingly protracted football season.

That must mean it is time for basketball.
Since last year:

OP is out; left for Depaul.

Brownell is in.

Booker is in DC.

Donte Hill is out.(Transfer)

Bobo can play? (4-5fg, 2-2ft vs. Belmont)?

So, what does this all mean for the team this year?

Your guess is as good as mine.

 Right now we know- or should, pressure defense and the cumulative effect will not be emphasized, as it was in the past.“Everybody knows that with Coach Purnell, we really stressed the full-court pressure defense,” Jerai Grant said. “With Coach Brownell, I think defense will be emphasized just as much, but it will be a little different. I don't think defense will be any less important.”

The offense will not be able to rely on Booker, big or little.

Well, after the exhibition 96-57 win against Belmont Abbey, we know a little, even if just a small amount more. For example, the team started three guards, which might have been a function of Jerai Grant being in street clothes, or just a practice, an adjustment.

This year will be exciting- as college basketball always is, but it is a transitional year. This year's iteration of the Tigers should be fun to watch at time, but painful at others. Painful in a different manner than when OP was here. This team is not just looking to run a system up and down the court, regardless of success, but will be trying to adapt to the new style motion-based offense, and the half court. The vision and basketball IQ and acumen of this year's team will be tested under Brownell. Any success these Tigers have will be contingent upon how they adapt, learn, and progress thorghout the course of the year.

All of that being said, I am ready for Clemson Basketball season to get started.

Go Tigers!