Clemson vs. Alabama Postgame Quotes

Jan. 7, 2009

Clemson Head Coach Oliver Purnell

On his team’s performance: “That was a good win for us. There were a number of things we didn’t do well. But it was a win against a good team with good guards and good athletes. I thought we won in a convincing way against a team that came in playing well.”

On his team’s undefeated run through non-conference play: “It’s a major accomplishment to go through non-conference play undefeated; I congratulated our guys. At the same time, we’ve got to realize that there’s still work to do, and some of those things showed up tonight.”

On the importance of the Tiger bench, particularly the freshmen: “For us to be good, they are going to have to play a role that is significant. They have to be there in crunch minutes because they’re fresh.”

On senior forward K.C. Rivers’ play: “It was a typical K.C. night. I hate trumpeting our own guys, but he’s one of the best players in the country. He does so many things.”

Alabama Head Coach Mark Gottfried

“Our guys fought hard. Clemson is good if they find a pocket where they can make a run and that’s what they did in the second half.”

“Our guys played hard. It is a game that will make us better. Clemson is a legitimate top 10 or top 15 team.”

“Our effort was there, we had chances there late in the game.”

“We are improving and getting better. They came into this place and it was packed to the gills and they fought hard.”