There’s reason for concern around Clemson basketball as it sits at 4-6 in the ACC and looking for momentum. That doesn’t mean the Tigers aren’t a good team and the respect garnered by one of the nation’s best speaks for itself.

Clemson faces a massive test in Chapel Hill, taking on No. 3 North Carolina Tuesday night. Ahead of the matchup, Tar Heels head coach Hubert Davis praised Clemson in his Monday ACC availability.

“They’re a very good basketball team. They’re one of the better teams in the country. Just plain and simple, period, the end. We’ve already played them, they’re always great defensively. They’re physical, they’re fundamentally sound on the offensive end. They can shoot from three and they can also dominate points in the paint,” Davis said.

The first matchup between these two teams was a hard-fought battle in Littlejohn Coliseum, but the Tigers just couldn’t find its shot. While Brad Brownell’s team limited North Carolina, it made just a single three and lost 65-55.

David talked at-length about Clemson’s strengths and also had a lot to say about Brownell, who he has the utmost respect for.

“Great offensive rebounding team and Coach Brownell is one of the better coaches in the country. I just have so much respect for him and his program. Every year, the things that they do consistently is just amazing and our full attention is on Clemson because it’s deserving,” Davis said.

In need of a spark, there’s no better chance to find it than taking down the No. 3 team in the country and Davis’ respect for Clemson clearly shows the challenge the Tigers bring. KenPom has this team inside the top 40 which is a testament to its potential even with recent lapses.

Clemson nearly had a win on Tobacco Road and gets its second chance Tuesday. The Tigers and Tar Heels tip off at 7 p.m., televised on ESPN.