Clemson’s Best of 2024-25: Top 5 Moments Including Cade Klubnik’s Breakout Season
The 2024-25 season was one for the history books for Clemson athletics. Across football, basketball, and beyond, the Tigers showcased grit, skill, and determination that captured the hearts of fans and continued Clemson’s tradition of excellence. Among the many highlights of this dynamic season, Cade Klubnik’s breakout football season stood out as a defining storyline that electrified the fanbase and established him as one of college football’s brightest young stars.
In this comprehensive review, we take a deep dive into the top five moments from Clemson athletics in 2024-25, highlighting how each moment impacted the program, energized fans, and shaped the Tigers’ future.
1. Cade Klubnik’s Historic Breakout Season
Cade Klubnik, Clemson’s talented quarterback, solidified his status as a franchise cornerstone during the 2024 football season. After stepping into the spotlight with promising flashes in previous seasons, Klubnik exploded onto the national stage in spectacular fashion, leading the Tigers with poise, athleticism, and leadership.
Record-Breaking Performances
One of the season’s most iconic moments came during a high-scoring game against Appalachian State. Klubnik threw for over 370 yards and accounted for seven total touchdowns in just one half—five passing and two rushing. This performance shattered Clemson’s records for first-half points and showcased Klubnik’s dual-threat capabilities, combining precision passing with explosive running ability.
Throughout the season, Klubnik consistently delivered clutch performances. His ability to read defenses, extend plays with his legs, and deliver accurate throws under pressure kept Clemson competitive in tight games. Notably, his 50-yard game-winning touchdown run against Pittsburgh became a defining highlight and a testament to his toughness and playmaking ability.
Leadership and Growth
Beyond statistics, Klubnik’s growth as a leader was evident. He earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike by demonstrating resilience, work ethic, and a calm demeanor in high-pressure situations. His leadership helped Clemson secure the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championship and advance to the College Football Playoff, rekindling the Tigers’ status as national contenders.
Klubnik’s breakout season didn’t just elevate his own career; it energized the entire Clemson program, inspiring younger players and fans to believe in the team’s bright future.
2. Clemson Men’s Basketball Sets Regular-Season Wins Record
While football grabbed headlines, Clemson’s men’s basketball team made significant strides during the 2024-25 season, setting new program records and establishing itself as a consistent contender in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Record-Breaking Season
Under the guidance of head coach Brad Brownell, the Tigers compiled a stellar 26–5 regular-season record—the best in the program’s history. The team also tied the school record with 18 ACC wins, showcasing remarkable consistency and resilience against top-tier competition.
A signature victory came against Virginia Tech, where Clemson secured a commanding 65–47 win to cement the regular-season wins record. This performance highlighted the Tigers’ defensive intensity and balanced scoring attack.
Coaching Stability and Impact
The season’s success led Clemson to extend Coach Brownell’s contract through 2031, recognizing his leadership and commitment to elevating the program. Brownell’s ability to develop talent and build a winning culture has been instrumental in the Tigers’ recent achievements, including a trip to the Elite Eight in 2024.
With renewed stability and a talented roster, Clemson men’s basketball looks poised for continued success in the coming years.
3. Nolan Hauser’s Game-Winning Kick in ACC Championship
In a thrilling culmination to Clemson’s football season, true freshman kicker Nolan Hauser delivered a historic game-winning 56-yard field goal as time expired to clinch the ACC Championship.
Rising to the Occasion
Hauser’s kick was the longest game-winning field goal in Clemson history and the longest in ACC Championship Game history. The pressure-packed moment exemplified his remarkable composure and accuracy, instantly making him a fan favorite and an integral part of the team’s success.
This clutch kick not only secured the championship but also propelled Clemson into the College Football Playoff, keeping championship dreams alive and thrilling the Clemson faithful.
Impact on Team Confidence
Hauser’s poise as a freshman was a testament to Clemson’s culture of developing young talent. His success inspired teammates and fans alike, demonstrating that Clemson’s future was bright across all positions.
4. Defensive Highlights: Payton Page’s 57-Yard Pick-6
Clemson’s defense also contributed unforgettable moments, with defensive tackle Payton Page making a standout play that energized the team and fans.
The Pick-6 Moment
In a commanding win against The Citadel, Page intercepted a pass and returned it 57 yards for a touchdown—the first time in four years a defensive lineman scored in such fashion for Clemson. This rare and electrifying play showcased the athleticism and awareness present on the Tigers’ defensive front.
Defensive Resilience
Page’s play epitomized Clemson’s aggressive defensive philosophy, setting the tone for the team’s defensive dominance throughout the season. It highlighted the importance of defense in Clemson’s overall strategy and reinforced the team’s ability to create momentum-changing plays.
5. Overcoming Adversity: Clemson Baseball’s Grit Amid Challenges
While football and basketball garnered much of the spotlight, Clemson baseball faced a tough stretch in 2024-25, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges.
Series Sweep by NC State
In a tough series against in-state rival NC State, Clemson was swept in three games. The Wolfpack’s dominant pitching and hitting put the Tigers on the back foot, testing their mental toughness and ability to rebound.
Lessons and Growth
Despite the sweep, Clemson’s baseball team showed determination to learn and grow. The experience underscored areas needing improvement, such as bullpen depth and offensive consistency, which the coaching staff addressed as the postseason approached.
This period of adversity was a reminder that rebuilding and resilience are part of every successful program’s journey. Clemson baseball’s resolve and dedication to improvement remain strong as the team looks toward future success.
The 2024-25 Clemson athletics season was defined by thrilling highs, moments of resilience, and the emergence of new stars. Cade Klubnik’s breakout season provided a beacon of hope for the football program’s future, while record-setting performances in men’s basketball signaled a bright horizon in that sport. Clutch plays like Nolan Hauser’s game-winning kick and Payton Page’s defensive touchdown energized the Clemson faithful, highlighting the depth of talent across the program.
Even amid challenges, such as those faced by the baseball team, Clemson demonstrated the grit and perseverance that define its athletic culture.
As Clemson continues to build on this foundation, the memories of the 2024-25 season will stand as a testament to the program’s enduring commitment to excellence, teamwork, and the pursuit of championship glory.
