Evaluating Each Newcomer’s Performance in Clemson’s Exhibition Win Over Georgia

Clemson men’s basketball tipped off its 2026-27 season with a thrilling 82-80 win over the Georgia Bulldogs on Friday night at Littlejohn Coliseum.

Brad Brownell made seven additions to the Tigers’ roster ahead of the campaign. Here’s an assessment of each newcomer’s performance in the first matchup against outside competition.

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F Dylan Faulkner

The senior transfer big from Samford was the biggest bright spot from the night for Clemson.

The moment that fans will remember is the putback game-winner at the buzzer, but Faulkner showed all night why he could be one of the lynchpins of the Tigers’ offense this season.

Faulkner flashed potential as a versatile big who can distribute, shoot, and attack the basket himself. He finished with 21 points on the night (including the putback buzzer-beater), 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. He made 11 of his 13 free-throw attempts, making the Bulldogs pay for the times that they fouled him inside.

All three qualities are vital for a Clemson team who will be without returner Carter Welling at the five spot. Brownell had Faulkner operate out of the high post as an offensive hub. Him continuing in role is something to watch for as the campaign gets underway.

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G Cole Certa

Certa got the start at the shooting guard position, alongside returner Ace Buckner. He was used mainly in a spot-up shooting role, similar to players like JJ Redick or Kyle Korver.

Defensively, Brownell tasked him with guarding Georgia guard Blue Cain throughout the game. Against UGA’s primary offensive threat, Certa held his own and showed solid lateral quickness on the defensive end of the floor.

Clemson’s next opponent fielding similar talent to itself comes on November 13 against Georgetown. Certa could be used as a wing stopper against opposing stars, so it will be notable which Hoya Brownell has him guarding as the season begins.

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G Harris Reynolds

The true freshman saw extensive action against Georgia with Ace Buckner in foul trouble all night…

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Publish date : 2026-10-24 15:08:00

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