In the ACC quarterfinals, the fifth-seeded Tigers defeat the fourth-seeded Blue Devils 15–7.

Clemson’s offense was a force to be reckoned with, amassing 15 runs on 14 hits. The Tigers capitalized on every opportunity, with key contributions from their lineup. Freshman standout Marian Collins led the charge, going 2-for-2 with three RBIs and one run scored. Ava Wilson added three RBIs on a single hit, while Macey Cintron and Sam Minish each scored twice, providing a spark at the top of the order. Veteran leadership came from senior Aby Vieira, who contributed a career-high three runs off one hit with one RBI, demonstrating the depth and experience of the Tigers’ batting lineup.

The team’s aggressive approach at the plate was evident, with Clemson capitalizing on Duke’s pitching mistakes and defensive lapses. The Tigers’ ability to string together hits and capitalize on scoring opportunities was a testament to their offensive discipline and preparedness.

In the circle, senior Reese Basinger delivered a stellar performance, earning the win and improving her record to 6-2. She struck out four batters, showcasing her ability to control the game and keep Duke’s hitters off balance. Basinger’s command and composure were instrumental in maintaining Clemson’s lead throughout the game.

The Tigers’ pitching staff demonstrated depth and versatility, effectively managing the Blue Devils’ potent offense. Their ability to execute pitches and maintain focus under pressure was a key factor in securing the victory.

Clemson’s defense was solid, executing plays with precision and minimizing errors. The infield turned key double plays, while the outfielders tracked down fly balls with efficiency. Catcher Kennedy Ariail was particularly effective, managing the pitching staff and ensuring that Duke’s base runners were kept in check. The team’s defensive cohesion was evident, as they consistently made the plays necessary to support their pitchers and maintain the game’s momentum.

Despite the loss, Duke displayed resilience, particularly in their offensive efforts. The Blue Devils managed to score seven runs, including two solo home runs in the fourth inning, demonstrating their ability to capitalize on Clemson’s pitching mistakes. However, their defense struggled to contain the Tigers’ offensive onslaught, and their pitching staff was unable to stem the tide of runs. Duke’s inability to execute key defensive plays and limit Clemson’s scoring opportunities ultimately led to their downfall.

With this victory, Clemson advances to the ACC semifinals, where they will face a formidable opponent in the top-seeded team. The Tigers’ comprehensive performance—combining explosive offense, solid pitching, and defensive reliability—demonstrates their readiness for the challenges ahead. If they continue to execute at a high level and maintain their focus, Clemson has the potential to make a deep run in the ACC Tournament and beyond.