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Clemson hoping to continue great start

Dec 21, 2008 - 8:47 AM No. 25 Clemson (11-0) at Miami FL (7-2), 7:45 pm EST

CORAL GABLES, Florida (Ticker) -- Clemson hopes to build off its great start.

Trevor Booker and the 25th-ranked Tigers will look for their 12th consecutive victory to start the campaign when they open their Atlantic Coast Conference slate against Miami on Sunday.

In each of the past four seasons, Clemson reveled in their non-conference schedule, starting at least 10-0. However, the Tigers have struggled to fully maximize those great starts, managing to reach the NCAA Tournament once in that span.

Booker is leading the way, averaging 15.1 points and 9.0 rebounds. He collected 16 points and 10 boards Tuesday as Clemson improved to 11-0 with a 76-36 romp over North Florida.

The win vaulted the Tigers into the rankings, but they should face their toughest challenge thus far against the Hurricanes, who were a part of the national polls until recently.

Clemson has also struggled against Miami, losing six of the last eight meetings.

The Hurricanes are seeking their fourth straight win after Jack McClinton scored 24 points in last Sunday's 70-62 victory over Robert Morris.