Ian Schieffelin was fouled under the basket and instinctively threw the ball over his head like a game in the driveway. As he careened to the ground, his circus shot dropped, making it 61-46.

That was sixth-seeded Clemson’s final field goal of the game, coming with 6:44 left in the game. As it went in, the Tigers bench went wild. So did the Clemson fans, who were wearing the “Schieff” hats that have become a staple for the ACC’s Most Improved Player.

Without that shot, the drought to end the game may have been larger and the result could have been different. Schieffelin has come through for the Tigers many times this season, and did so again.

“It was a big play in the game and gave us a lot of energy, momentum. Just looking at the crowd getting up yelling. Band is helping, wearing chef hats, it’s awesome. The whole thing is awesome,” Schieffelin said.

The support for Schieffelin has come for many reasons, the biggest being the “one of us” reaction fans have because he doesn’t look like the average elite basketball player. The thing is though, he’s proving to be one of the most effective players in March.

For Schieffelin, it’s very literally a dream come true and his 11 points, six rebounds and three assists helped Clemson keep dancing.

“This is one of the craziest things I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. I’ve dreamed of this and this is awesome,” Schieffelin said.

While he didn’t secure his 11th double-double of the season, Schieffelin made his routine impact on both ends. The over-the-head layup will be the one most remembered, but a defensive play late was just as important.

The Tigers were holding on for their NCAA Tournament lives with 1:05 remaining as Baylor’s RayJ Dennis drove to the rim. He caught fire as great scorers do in March and it was a four-point game.

Dennis got a great look at the rim, but Schieffelin was the last defense, erasing the attempt to help seal the deal. Clemson keeps on dancing, and the unsung hero is becoming the spotlight in the biggest time of the season.