Purnell not worried about perception

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BUFFALO, N.Y. - The perception is Oliver Purnell and Clemson cannot win in March.

Purnell has lost four consecutive first-round NCAA tournament games as the higher seed. He is 0 for 6 in NCAA games. His Tigers have lost in the first round in three consecutive years. Moreover, the Tigers have lost in the first round of the ACC tournament to lower seeds in consecutive seasons.

Purnell was asked about the perception after Friday's loss to Missouri.

"I think there will probably be a perception among some people," Purnell said. " I certainly don't subscribe to that. Next year we'll have a different team. This team was different than last year's team. And that's the approach I think we have to take. I thought our guys were determined to win today."

Missouri coach Mike Anderson has had more success in the NCAA tournament, leading the Big 12 Tigers to the Elite Eight last year, and UAB to the Sweet Sixteen in 2004. Anderson pointed to multiple factors for the postseason success.

"I think you build your team up until you get to this point," Anderson said. "Because, to me, this is what you work towards.

"Once you win, I think you taste it. I think you want it more. And these guys, they had some success last year. They really did. And I think that experience is really, hopefully, what paid dividends."

Next generation

Purnell talked about Clemson becoming a different team next season, and much of the new look will revolve around Milton Jennings, Noel Johnson and Devin Booker.

In the postseason, Johnson was the most impressive of the freshman group. He made two of four 3s Friday and made four of five 3s against N.C. State. He also logged the most minutes of the freshmen in the postseason (31). He figures to be a contender to replace David Potter in the starting lineup.

Jennings' season will go down as a disappointment. He played four minutes Friday - producing three turnovers.

Devin Booker scored a combined four points in tournament play.

Bowers just fine

Missouri forward Laurence Bowers revealed he had two torn ligaments in his wrist last week, but played as if he was healthy against Clemson. He made 6 of 10 field goals for 16 points, grabbed five rebounds, dished out three assists and blocked a shot. He helped take away Clemson's inside game, which was thought to be a major advantage for Clemson.

Ratio woes

Demontez Stitt has proven to be an effective slashing scorer, he is a quality on-ball defender and has an improved jump shot. But in ACC play and in the postseason, Stitt produced 40 turnovers against 38 assists. Stitt is an asset, but he might not be a pure point guard.

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