Clemson Women’s Basketball Triumphs Over Stanford in Thrilling Overtime Victory
The Clemson Tigers (10-5, 3-1) secured a hard-fought 65-61 overtime victory over the Stanford Cardinal (8-6, 0-3) in a game that showcased both individual brilliance and team resilience. Behind a career-high performance from junior guard Loyal McQueen, who finished with 26 points and 12 made free throws, the Tigers extended their win streak and remained in contention for the top spots in the ACC.
This victory marked a major turning point for Clemson, who has displayed steady improvement throughout the season. McQueen’s dominant performance not only led the team in scoring but also cemented her place in the history books, as her 12 free throws tied for the tenth most ever made in a single game for Clemson. Her 26 points are the most by any Tiger this season, surpassing Mia Moore’s 23 points against North Carolina State just a week prior. In a game full of tight moments and changing leads, McQueen’s ability to rise to the occasion was pivotal in sealing the win.
A Back-and-Forth Battle
The game was an intense back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to establish complete control. Stanford, despite struggling through much of the season, has a history of strong performances, and they showed their resilience throughout the game. Both teams fought hard in the fourth quarter, with neither side able to create a significant gap. The Tigers’ largest lead of the quarter was just five points, reflecting how closely contested the entire game was.
The final minute of regulation encapsulated the back-and-forth nature of the game. With 0:59 left in the fourth quarter, Clemson’s Thompson hit a critical three-pointer to put the Tigers ahead by three points. It appeared as though the Tigers might be on their way to victory, but Stanford responded in kind. A clutch three-pointer from the Cardinal with only 0:23 remaining in regulation sent the game into overtime, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
Overtime Drama
The overtime period added to the tension of what had already been an emotional rollercoaster for both teams. With just 1:49 remaining in overtime, Stanford held a four-point advantage, looking like they might steal the game away from Clemson. However, the Tigers’ composure in the final moments showed why they are becoming one of the more formidable teams in the ACC.
With the game on the line, Anya Poole and McQueen became the difference-makers. Poole, who had already contributed heavily throughout the game, was clutch in the final minutes. Poole hit two key free throws and grabbed crucial rebounds, while McQueen knocked down a tough jumper in the paint to bring the Tigers back into the lead. Together, they sparked a 6-0 run over the last 1:17 of the game, closing out the contest with the Tigers on top by four points.
Poole’s contributions were crucial. She finished the game shooting 4-5 from the field, contributing not only offensively but defensively as well, recording two blocks and five rebounds. Her ability to step up in key moments helped the Tigers weather the late storm from Stanford and seal the victory. Poole’s all-around performance shows her growth as a player and her importance to the team, particularly in crunch time.
Team Effort and Strong Contributions
While McQueen’s historic performance took the spotlight, it was a complete team effort that powered Clemson to this victory. Clemson’s defense also played a huge role, limiting Stanford’s offense down the stretch. Despite giving up a few critical late points to send the game into overtime, the Tigers locked down defensively when it mattered most. Their ability to disrupt Stanford’s offensive flow and control the pace was a testament to their growing confidence and cohesiveness as a team.
In addition to McQueen and Poole, Thompson also had a significant impact on the game. Thompson’s clutch three-pointer in the final minute of regulation was a critical shot, and her leadership throughout the game was instrumental. Mia Moore, who had led the Tigers in scoring in previous games, was not as dominant this time around but contributed in key moments and provided stability to the offense.
Stanford’s Resilience and Struggles
For Stanford, the loss was a bitter one. The Cardinal came into the game having already faced some early struggles in Pac-12 play, and this game was an opportunity to rebound. However, they couldn’t overcome the Tigers’ defensive pressure and key plays in the final minutes.
Despite a valiant effort from Haley Jones, who led Stanford in scoring, the Cardinal fell short. Jones finished with a solid performance, but the rest of the team struggled to convert in crucial moments. Stanford’s inability to contain Clemson’s offensive stars, particularly McQueen and Poole, ultimately decided the outcome.
The Cardinal did manage to force overtime, thanks in large part to their resilience late in the game, but they couldn’t maintain their momentum in the extra period. A slow start to the season, coupled with key losses like this one, will make it challenging for Stanford to recover as they continue Pac-12 play.
What This Victory Means for Clemson
This victory over Stanford is an important step for Clemson’s women’s basketball program, signaling their ability to compete with top-tier teams. While Stanford has struggled this season, they are still a respected opponent, and Clemson’s ability to close out a game like this will provide confidence moving forward.
The Tigers have shown flashes of brilliance this season, and games like this show that they are capable of pulling off dramatic victories in high-pressure situations. With Loyal McQueen emerging as a star, Clemson’s offense is becoming more well-rounded. McQueen’s scoring ability, especially her clutch free throws, puts the Tigers in a good position to close out games as the season progresses.
The win also strengthens Clemson’s position in the ACC standings, where they are showing that they are more than just a competitive team—they are a team that can go toe-to-toe with anyone. With McQueen and Poole stepping up in key moments, and solid performances from players like Thompson and Moore, Clemson looks like a team that could make a run in the conference tournament and potentially make some noise in the NCAA tournament.
Moving Forward
Looking ahead, the Tigers will need to build on this victory to stay in the hunt for a top spot in the ACC. Their ability to perform in tight games will be key, especially as they face more conference challenges. They have shown they can beat quality teams in high-stress situations, and if they continue to improve their consistency on both ends of the floor, they will be a dangerous team for the rest of the season.
In particular, Clemson will need to continue to develop its defensive capabilities while maintaining its offensive efficiency. Players like McQueen, Poole, and Thompson will need to keep stepping up, and others will have to rise to the occasion in big moments. As they prepare for the next stretch of games, the Tigers will look to continue building momentum and solidify their standing as one of the top teams in the ACC.
For now, though, they can enjoy a thrilling, hard-earned win over Stanford, one that should serve as a confidence booster for the rest of the season.
