CLEMSON - Viktor Lakhin had a huge bounce-back game for Clemson in the Tigers' 86-72 win over Syracuse on Tuesday night.
After scoring just three points in the overtime win at Pitt on Saturday, the big man made his presence felt against the Orange, scoring 16 points and pulling down 10 rebounds. It was Lakhin's third double-double of the season.
At one point in the contest, Lakhin gave fans a scare when it appeared he might have suffered an injury. However, the transfer from Cincinnati revealed that he was fine after the game.
"No injury, I don't get hurt," Lakhin quipped after the win.
Lakhin maintained he was suffering from cramps more than anything.
"Got banged up, cramped a little bit," Lakhin said. "What you would expect from a center. It's physical down there, so you can imagine."
One thing that shouldn't be questioned is Lakhin's ability to play through discomfort. Earlier this month, the 6-foot-11 center played several games dealing with an illness.
While it might have had an impact on his production, Lakhin was still on the court and he insists he will continue to be, no matter what.
"For a week or so, it was pretty difficult," Lakhin added. "But I have a responsibility to the team and it doesn't really matter how I feel. We just need to keep winning and if it takes for me to play when I am not feeling the best, that is what it takes. And I am willing to make that sacrifice for us to make the tournament and a run there."
With the win over Syracuse, Clemson improved to 16-4 overall and 8-1 in ACC play. The Tigers are currently one game back of Duke in the loss column of the league standings.
Next up is a road matchup with Virginia Tech on Saturday. Tipoff is set for 5pm and the game will be televised on the ACC Newtork.