A Recipe for Success: The Rise of “Chef” Ian Schieffelin from Clemson

What’s the deal with Clemson’s chef hats? Here’s why Tiger fans are wearing them.

A Recipe for Success: How Ian Schieffelin Became Clemson’s Unlikely Hero

The Rise of “Chef” Ian Schieffelin

It’s no secret that Clemson isn’t exactly known for its success on the basketball court. The Tigers have struggled to make a mark in recent years, with NCAA Tournament appearances being few and far between. However, this year, Clemson fans have found something to rally around in the form of junior forward Ian Schieffelin.

While Schieffelin may not be the Tigers’ star player, he has certainly captured the hearts of Clemson faithful. And it’s not just his on-court performance that has endeared him to fans; it’s also the hilarious trend that has emerged in his honor.

If you’ve been following Clemson’s journey in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, you may have noticed something unusual – fans and even the team band donning chef hats while cheering on the Tigers. No, this isn’t a nod to Clemson’s culinary program; it’s a tribute to none other than Ian Schieffelin himself.

But why chef hats, you might ask? Well, it all stems from Schieffelin’s nickname – “Chef” or “Schief” for short – a playful moniker derived from the pronunciation of the first syllable of his last name. The trend kicked off in late January, gaining momentum as Clemson’s tournament run progressed, with chef hats becoming a staple in the sea of orange at Clemson games.

According to The Post and Courier, the trend caught on like wildfire, with the program even distributing hats to the student section in February. When asked about the origin of the nickname and the trend, Schieffelin himself admitted, “People just started calling me Schief… You start seeing somebody wearing a chef hat, I kind of assumed it was for myself.”

But what makes Schieffelin stand out amidst Clemson’s roster? He may not be one of the team’s top scorers, but he’s earned his place as a vital component of the Tigers’ success. Described as a scrappy “glue guy,” Schieffelin’s contributions go beyond the box score, making him a fan favorite.

The story behind Clemson’s chef hats ??‍? #shorts

And make no mistake, Schieffelin can play. With impressive performances in the tournament, including a double-double in Clemson’s first-round victory over New Mexico, he’s proven himself as a force to be reckoned with on the court. As the Tigers gear up to face Alabama for a shot at the Final Four, you can bet that the chef hats will be out in full force.

Throughout his junior season, Schieffelin has been a consistent performer, averaging over nine points and rebounds per game while showcasing his most efficient campaign yet. With 10 double-doubles under his belt this season, including standout rebounding performances, Schieffelin’s presence on the glass has been crucial for Clemson, especially in games where they’ve been out-rebounded.

In a tournament filled with thrilling moments and unexpected heroes, Ian Schieffelin’s rise to prominence – both on and off the court – is a testament to the magic of March Madness. So, as you watch Clemson take the court, don’t forget to tip your hat – your chef hat, that is – to the one they call “Chef.”

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