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Clemson basketball fans aren’t happy with head coach Brad Brownell after he was seen pushing a Tigers player on the court.
A video clip of the longtime coach is now circulating social media, sparking outrage from supporters of the university.
The incident came during a matchup between Clemson and Virginia Tech, one that the Tigers would lose 87-72. With the Tigers on offense, Brownell attempted to direct his players from the sidelines.
Fans think he took it a step too far.
With the ball in play, Brownell was seen coming off the bench to shove Joe Girard into position on the floor.
Brad needs to go! He has lost yet another “his best team ever.” Same story different year! #firebrad pic.twitter.com/xLpFNQBNjg
— Joe Miller (@CUTiger007) January 11, 2024
Calls to fire Brad Brownell for the push immediately surfaced, though that’s likely an overreaction.
While Girard didn’t seem to appreciate the shove based on his on-court response, it didn’t seem overly egregious. The biggest issue is likely his being on the floor with the ball in play.
Clemson fans have been looking for a reason to get rid of Brownell for some time, though, which is likely why this is starting to gain momentum.
The head coach has taken the Tigers to three NCAA Tournaments in his 13-year tenure, including a Sweet 16 in 2018. Last year, he won 23 games though Clemson missed the Big Dance due to some bad losses.
The narrative has been the same surrounding Brownell. After picking up early momentum in non-conference play, the Tigers falter down the stretch.
Last year’s team started 18-4 before losing six of their last 11 games. They’d then lose as a No. 1 seed in the NIT to Morehead State.
This season has been more of the same.
Following a 11-1 start, the Tigers have dropped three straight games, falling to the bottom of the ACC standings.
Still, Clemson remains an NCAA Tournament team based on Joe Lunardi’s latest projection. We’ll see if he can avoid the patented late-season slip and secure a spot in March Madness.