Brownell Secures Clemson Frontcourt for 2024

Take a sigh of relief because there’s no need to panic about Clemson’s front court for 2024.

Head coach Brad Brownell landed Cincinnati Viktor Lakhin Wednesday morning after an official visit the day before. This addition comes on the heels of sixth man and forward RJ Godfrey entering the transfer portal.

This couldn’t come at a better time. Clemson now has its center spot secured regardless of what PJ Hall decides to do. Should he elect to return, then you can start parading about this group up front.

The Tigers front court will be led by Ian Schieffelin and the new addition in Lakhin. The former made a massive jump as a junior, averaging 10.1 points and 9.4 rebounds.

Add in Lakhin and there’s your starting pair. The Anapa, Russia native is an interior presence. Obviously the shoes are big to fill but the incoming senior may have to step into what was once Hall’s role.

As a junior, Lakhin averaged 9.2 pounds and six rebounds. He started in 24 games and has the experience to jump into the role at Clemson.

The Tigers play a very aggressive defense under Brownell and Lakhin has the ability to join and flourish in that system. Playing alongside Schieffelin doesn’t hurt either.

This addition can’t be understated because Hall was the only true center with experience to start. Brownell got a good one and it allows the Tigers to have a contingency plan regardless of how the offseason decisions come together.