Clemson Coach Remains Proud Despite Losses

Brad Brownell says team has shown resilience despite recent setbacks.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Clemson basketball head coach Brad Brownell expressed pride in his team's performance this season, despite recent losses to Virginia Tech and Duke that dropped the Tigers from a tie for first place to third in the ACC standings. Brownell acknowledged the quality of the competition but also pointed to mistakes the team can control, saying their margin for error is not as great as some top teams. The coach wants his team to get back to their identity focused on team connectedness, spirit, and defense as they prepare to face Wake Forest.

Why it matters

Clemson has been a strong contender in the ACC this season, and Brownell's ability to keep the team motivated and focused despite setbacks will be crucial as they look to finish the season strong and potentially earn an NCAA tournament bid.

The details

Clemson dropped from a tie for first place to third place in the ACC standings this week after losses to Virginia Tech and Duke. Brownell was critical of his team's mistakes in those losses, saying 'if you continue to make those mistakes, our margin for error is not as great as some of the teams.' However, the coach also reminded his team of their 10-3 record in non-league and conference play, and said he's 'really proud' of how they've competed against tough opponents.

  • Clemson lost to Virginia Tech on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
  • Clemson lost to Duke on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
  • Clemson's next game is against Wake Forest on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Brad Brownell

The head coach of the Clemson men's basketball team.

Jon Scheyer

The head coach of the Duke men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“We were a little demanding with that, but also reminding our guys I'm really proud of, you know, we were 10-3 in the non-league. We're 10-3 in the conference. We've played a lot of really good teams. We found ways to win some games, and we haven't played our best some games.”

— Brad Brownell, Head Coach, Clemson Basketball (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

Clemson will look to bounce back when they face Wake Forest on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

The takeaway

Despite recent setbacks, Clemson coach Brad Brownell remains confident in his team's ability to compete at a high level in the ACC. The Tigers' resilience and focus on their defensive identity will be key as they aim to finish the season strong and potentially earn an NCAA tournament bid.