Clemson basketball tops Pittsburgh in snowy South Carolina matchup

See the top photos from the Clemson Tigers' victory over the Pittsburgh Panthers at Littlejohn Coliseum.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Clemson Tigers basketball team defeated the Pittsburgh Panthers in a hard-fought game played in snowy conditions at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, South Carolina on January 31, 2025. The game featured strong performances from Clemson players like Butta Johnson and RJ Godfrey, as well as an appearance from a cancer survivor who greeted the Clemson mascot.

Why it matters

This matchup between ACC rivals Clemson and Pittsburgh took place during an unusual winter storm that hit the Upstate region of South Carolina, adding an extra layer of drama and difficulty to the game. Clemson's victory over a tough Pittsburgh squad was an important conference win for the Tigers as they look to make a push for the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Clemson guard Butta Johnson had a standout game, scoring multiple baskets and grabbing rebounds against the Pittsburgh defense. Sophomore forward RJ Godfrey also made key contributions for the Tigers, scoring near the basket and battling for rebounds. The game featured intense play on both sides, with Pittsburgh head coach Jeff Capel visibly engaged on the sidelines.

  • The game took place on January 31, 2025 at Littlejohn Coliseum in Clemson, South Carolina.
  • The first half of the game was played during the snowstorm that hit the region.

The players

Butta Johnson

A Clemson guard who had a standout performance, scoring multiple baskets and grabbing rebounds.

RJ Godfrey

A Clemson sophomore forward who made key contributions, scoring near the basket and battling for rebounds.

Jeff Capel

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Panthers, who was visibly engaged on the sidelines during the intense matchup.

Matt Lizewski

A cancer survivor who greeted the Clemson Tiger mascot during the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“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 Clemson Tigers will look to build on this conference win as they continue their push for a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Despite the snowy conditions, the Clemson Tigers were able to secure an important conference victory over a tough Pittsburgh squad, showcasing the team's resilience and talent as they aim to make a deep postseason run.