As August rolls around and all eyes are locked in on Clemson Football, I wanted to hit pause for a second. Don’t get me wrong, I love football just as much as the next person does. But while everyone’s talking about quarterbacks, exciting matchups, and playoff hopes, I think it’s time we shift our attention for just a moment to something just as exciting on the horizon: Clemson Women’s Basketball.
Yes, basketball season is still a few months away. But if you’re not paying attention to what Coach Shawn Poppie is building with this Clemson Women’s Basketball program, you’re going to be late to the party.
Coach Poppie: Year Two, But It Feels Like He’s Been Here Forever
It’s hard to believe Coach Poppie is only heading into his second season at Clemson. The way he’s embraced the Clemson community — and how they’ve embraced him right back — makes it feel like he’s been here for a decade. He’s not just a coach; he’s a connector. Whether it’s in Littlejohn Coliseum, around campus, or on social media, Poppie is present. He’s locked in. And that presence has already made an impact.
It’s easy to see why top prospects in the 2026 and 2027 classes are including Clemson in their short lists. This isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about building a culture where players grow as athletes, students, and people.
New Faces, New Energy
Let’s be honest: losing players like Loyal McQueen, Summah Evans, Maddi Cluse, Tessa Miller, Anya Poole, and some others is no small thing. Those were core contributors, and their departures definitely left holes in the roster.
But here’s where it gets fun. Coach Poppie didn’t waste any time in the transfer portal this offseason, bringing in a group of newcomers who are ready to compete from day one. Rusne Augustinaite (Georgia Tech), Demeara Hinds (Wake Forest), Taylor Johnson-Matthews (DePaul), Morgan Lee (Marist), Hadley Periman (Tulsa), and Rachael Rose (Wofford). Some of these names may not be household yet, but don’t be surprised when they start making headlines in the ACC.
And we’re not done yet. The freshman class adds even more spark: Ja’Kerra Butler out of Georgia, Holland Harris from Florida, and Amaia Jackson from New York. All three bring different styles and skills to the floor, and all three are walking into a program that knows how to develop talent.
The Core Is Still Strong
Even with all the changes, the Tigers aren’t starting from scratch. Returners like Hannah Kohn, Mia Moore, Morgan Miller, and Raven Thompson will give this team leadership, experience, and energy. Having that core group hold things together while the newcomers find their rhythm could be the difference between a good team and a great one.
What stands out most about this new-look roster isn’t just the talent — it’s the depth and versatility. There’s size, speed, shooting, and defensive grit across the board. Coach Poppie and his staff clearly prioritized bringing in players who can fill immediate roles but also fit the long-term vision. It might take a few games for the chemistry to click, but once it does, this team has the tools to compete with anyone in the ACC.
It’s Time to Buy Stock in Clemson Women’s Basketball
Let me just say this: If Clemson Women’s Basketball were a stock, I’d be investing in it right now. As Dabo Swinney would say.
Coach Poppie has the vision. He’s got the energy. He’s bringing in talent. He’s connecting with the community. And he’s doing it all with a clear sense of purpose. This team is heading in the right direction, and fast.
So while you’re counting down the days to kickoff in Death Valley, don’t forget to pencil in a few trips to Littlejohn this winter. Because this Clemson Women’s Basketball team? They’re building something special — and you’re going to want to say you saw it coming.
