Welcome to Paradise: Clemson in the Virgin Islands – Monday

Nov. 22, 2010

While the Tiger basketball team fell short in its goal to win the Paradise Jam, Clemson still managed to compile a 2-1 record and win the consolation final after a rugged battle with Seton Hall out of the Big East.

Jerai Grant. But, he turned his game up a notch in the second frame and extra period to produce 14 points and eight rebounds.

Tanner Smith and Demontez Stitt both came through at the free throw line as well, hitting a combined 14-of-16 from the charity stripe. Congratulations to Stitt, who was named to the all-tournament team at the conclusion of the event. He averaged a shade over 16 points per game in the three contests.

The team that beat Clemson, Old Dominion, went on to claim the championship after defeating Xavier by a score of 67-58. The Monarchs were a second-round NCAA Tournament team a year ago, and after witnessing their relentless defense, it’s easy to understand why. Old Dominion’s Ben Finney was named the Most Valuable Player.

Perhaps the best sign from the game was that the Tigers shot the ball poorly (29 percent), yet somehow found a way to dig deep and win. These types of games can do wonders for a team’s confidence. It will be interesting to see Clemson’s progress throughout the remainder of the non-conference slate as players continue to adapt to Brad Brownell and the new coaching staff.

It’s been a long, exhausting trip for everyone. It wasn’t all business, though. The team got to enjoy the St. Thomas Skyride, where the sites from above the island where absolutely phenomenal. The snorkeling adventure on Saturday was a fun time for everyone involved, including all 12 players that chose to take part in it. And of course, the games were a lot of fun as well.

Thanks to everyone for following the blog and Don Munson’s video reports throughout the past week. Clemson returns to action on Friday to host South Carolina State at 7:00 PM in Littlejohn Coliseum. We hope to see a packed house to support the Tigers!