Hunter’s unresolved eligibility leaves Brownell weighing Clemson’s exhibition reps

Brad Brownell has Dillon Hunter practicing at Clemson, but he still cannot build a game rotation around the veteran guard. Speaking at Wednesday's ACC Tipoff, the coach said Hunter remains ineligible and is working with his lawyers to resolve his status.

The immediate problem is how Clemson uses its remaining preparation time. Brownell told The Clemson Insider that he has not decided whether Hunter should take repetitions in upcoming exhibitions and scrimmages when the team cannot be sure he will play during the season.

That decision affects younger players preparing for larger roles. Brownell said the original backcourt plan centered on Ace Buckner and Zac Foster. Hunter returned with an understanding that he could provide experience from the bench, while Foster continues recovering from a torn ACL.

Practice availability leaves a rotation question

Hunter has continued attending classes and practicing, Brownell said. Those activities have not resolved his game eligibility. The coach described the wait as frustrating in WSPA's separate reporting from the event, while teammates emphasized Hunter's value within the group.

Buckner told WSPA that having Hunter available would strengthen the team. Carter Welling also spoke about wanting the guard to play again. Their comments reflect the uncertainty: Clemson is preparing with Hunter present while still waiting for an answer about competition.

Last season, Hunter started all 35 games and averaged 7.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and a team-leading three assists, according to WSPA. Losing that experience would remove a familiar ball-handler from a roster already managing injury recoveries.

Brownell's options depend partly on Foster's progress. He told The Clemson Insider that an eligible Hunter could earn a starting role if Foster is not ready and Hunter performs well. That was a conditional possibility, with no starting assignment announced.

Clemson opens the regular season against Stetson on November 2. For now, Brownell must decide how much exhibition work to give a player who can help in practice but has not been cleared to help in games.