Clemson Defeats No. 24 Louisville in Comeback Win

Jestin Porter's 16 second-half points power Tigers to victory over Cardinals

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:47am

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Clemson came away with an 80-75 win over visiting Louisville on Saturday afternoon in Atlantic Coast Conference play. Powered by Jestin Porter's 16 points in the second half, including four three-pointers, the Tigers (21-8, 11-5 ACC) ended their four-game losing streak and earned their second victory against a ranked opponent this season. Louisville's leading scorer Mikel Brown Jr. left the game in the second half due to a back injury, and the Cardinals (20-9, 9-7 ACC) struggled from the free-throw line and three-point range.

Why it matters

This win is a significant boost for Clemson's postseason hopes, as they look to solidify their position in the ACC standings. For Louisville, the loss and Brown's injury raise concerns about the team's depth and ability to compete against top conference opponents down the stretch.

The details

Jestin Porter scored all of his 16 points in the second half, including four three-pointers, to lead the Tigers to victory. Ace Buckner had a season-high eight rebounds off the bench, and RJ Godfrey added 13 points and seven rebounds for Clemson. For Louisville, Ryan Conwell extended his double-digit scoring streak to 22 games with 15 points, while Adrian Wooley scored 17 points and made three three-pointers. However, the Cardinals struggled from the free-throw line, shooting a season-low 58%, and missed 24 of their final 28 three-point attempts.

  • Clemson went on a 10-4 run to begin the second half, building a nine-point lead.
  • In the final minute, Louisville went on a 16-4 run to cut Clemson's lead to four points, but Buckner made four free throws to seal the win.

The players

Jestin Porter

A Clemson player who scored 16 points in the second half, including four three-pointers, to lead the Tigers to victory.

Mikel Brown Jr.

Louisville's leading scorer on the season, who left the game in the second half due to a back injury and scored a season-low five points.

Adrian Wooley

A Louisville player who scored 17 points and made three three-pointers, tying a season-high in conference play.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.