In a dominant performance, R.J. Godfrey led the Clemson Tigers to an impressive 83-56 victory over Morehead State. This win not only showcased the team’s strength but also allowed Godfrey to avenge a past loss that haunted him since March 2021, when Morehead State eliminated the Tigers from the NIT Tournament.
Significance of the Game
For R.J. Godfrey, this matchup was more than just another game. It was a chance to honor his former teammate, Hunter Tyson, whose last game with Clemson was the defeat against Morehead State. Godfrey expressed his motivation: “This is one game I kind of had circled… I really wanted to come out and play hard for him.”
Godfrey’s Performance
Godfrey delivered a strong performance, marking the third double-double of his career. He finished the game with 13 points and a team-high 11 rebounds. Notably, nine of his rebounds occurred in the first half, with six of them coming on offensive boards.
Coaching Perspective
Clemson head coach Brad Brownell highlighted Godfrey’s evolving role as a veteran leader. He emphasized the importance of offensive rebounding, stating that Godfrey’s commitment to this aspect sets a competitive tone for the entire team. “R.J.’s at the point in his career where he needs to be a complete player,” Brownell noted.
Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Godfrey and the Tigers face the Georgetown Hoyas on the road. This will be a significant early test for the team. The game is scheduled for noon on Saturday and can be viewed on Peacock.
Player Development
Godfrey’s journey has been defined by consistent growth. In his previous seasons, he averaged 3.4 rebounds and just over six points per game at Clemson. During a one-year stint at Georgia, he registered nearly four rebounds and 6.8 points per game. Now, back at Clemson, he has averaged 11.7 points and just shy of nine rebounds in his first three games, marking a notable improvement.
Community and Team Impact
Godfrey’s effort reflects his understanding of the team’s dynamics. “It’s a battle of who wants it more,” he noted about offensive rebounding. His mindset not only enhances his game but also inspires teammates to elevate their performance.
- Game Date: Upcoming game on Saturday
- Opponent: Georgetown Hoyas
- Previous Performance: 13 points, 11 rebounds against Morehead State
- Coach’s Expectation: Complete player responsibilities
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on R.J. Godfrey to see how he continues to lead the Clemson Tigers on their journey this year.
