Brad Brownell addresses how Clemson's ACC Tournament result could impact his future

Clemson coach Brad Brownell has a big opportunity heading into the ACC Tournament this week. The Tigers (22-9, 14-6 ACC) are currently among the “next four out” in Joe Lunardi’s NCAA Tournament projections, but enter with a chance to earn an at-large bid depending on how things play out.

Brownell, who is in his 13th year at Clemson, entered this season on the hot seat. Many believe that if he fails to make March Madness, it could be his last. However, when asked about the possibility in a Monday press conference, the coach kept his answer brief.

“That’s up to (athletic director) Graham (Neff),” Brownell said. “He’s been really supportive all year. We’ve obviously had a good team and a very successful season. So I’ll leave all those things up to him.”

The Tigers got off to a 10-1 start in ACC play this season but has gone 4-5 since then. That, combined with a lack of quality wins, has put their tournament status in question despite already reaching the 20-win mark and finishing third in the ACC. They also aren’t getting any help after suffering a pair of bad losses to Louisville and Loyola Chicago.

Brad Brownell has led Clemson to a 240-175 record in his time as coach. However, he has reached the NCAA Tournament just three times. That certainly doesn’t appear to be good for his job security, even if this season is his fifth time recording at least 20 wins.

The Tigers have won three of their past four games entering the ACC Tournament, but it’s clear based on bracketology projections they still have work to do. Their third-place finish in the conference standings earned them a bye for the first two rounds. With that being the case, they’ll face either NC State, Virginia Tech or Notre Dame in the quarterfinals at 9:30 p.m. ET on Thursday.