Clemson and South Carolina Set for High-Stakes Palmetto Cup Clash
The highly anticipated showdown between the Clemson Tigers (D2) and the South Carolina Gamecocks (D1) is set to take center stage on Friday at 8:15 p.m. at Flight Adventure Park in Irmo, S.C. In what will be their first and only matchup of the 2024-25 season, the winner will claim the coveted Palmetto Cup.
Traditionally, the Palmetto Cup is awarded to the team that secures at least two wins in a three-game season series. However, due to Clemson’s shortened schedule this season, Friday’s clash will serve as the sole deciding game, making it an all-or-nothing contest for state bragging rights.
For the Tigers, the stakes could not be higher. Clemson has not hoisted the Palmetto Cup since the 2016-17 season, and for many players—particularly the seniors—this matchup represents the most significant moment of their collegiate careers. With the conclusion of their postseason action in the College Hockey South Division 2 playoffs last weekend, where they defeated the Miami Hurricanes 6-5 in the quarterfinals before falling to the South Florida Bulls 5-3, Friday’s game will mark the final contest of the season. At 10-3-0, Clemson will not be making the trip to the AAU National Tournament in March, making this rivalry game their last chance to leave their mark on the season.
Meanwhile, the Gamecocks (19-7-2) are preparing for a different kind of finish. South Carolina, the defending AAU Division 1 National Champions, are gearing up to compete for their second consecutive national title next week in Jacksonville, Fla. However, Friday’s matchup remains a key event for the team, as they honor their seniors and aim to close out their regular-season campaign with a statement victory. Coming off a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Georgia Ice Dawgs last Saturday, the Gamecocks will look to keep their momentum rolling in front of a sold-out home crowd.
With pride, history, and a trophy on the line, both teams will undoubtedly bring their best to the ice for this final battle. Puck drop is set for 8:30 p.m. EST, and fans can expect an electric atmosphere as two fierce rivals go head-to-head in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season.
ABOUT College Hockey South: Founded in 2008, College Hockey South is a 30-school, 50-team intercollegiate hockey conference spanning eight southeastern U.S. states that competes in AAU College Hockey. College Hockey South is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization.
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