The Duke Blue Devils might be catching a timely break as they prepare to face the Virginia Cavaliers this Saturday. Fresh off a significant victory against the former No. 1 Michigan Wolverines, Duke is eyeing a strong finish to the 2025-26 college basketball season.
With just three games left, head coach Jon Scheyer has his sights set on closing out the season with an impressive eight-game win streak. However, the upcoming clash with the No. 11 Virginia Cavaliers is set to be their toughest test.
Fortune may be favoring Duke, as Virginia's standout forward, Thijs De Ridder, exited their recent game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack with a knee injury. This development could be pivotal for the Blue Devils.
De Ridder has been a powerhouse for Virginia this season. The freshman from Antwerp, Belgium, has been turning heads with his performances, averaging 16 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, and shooting an impressive 52.4 percent from the field over 28 games.
His recent performances have been nothing short of stellar, including a 22-point, five-rebound, three-steal effort against Georgia Tech. Before his injury, he was already making waves against North Carolina State with 19 points, four rebounds, and two assists.
Should De Ridder be unable to play on Saturday, it would be a significant advantage for Duke. His absence would leave Virginia without their leading scorer and rebounder, creating a gap in both their offensive and defensive strategies. De Ridder's matchup against Duke’s Cameron Boozer, one of the nation’s top forwards, would have been a highlight, and his potential absence shifts the dynamics considerably.
For Duke, this could be the edge they need to secure a crucial victory as they aim for a strong finish to the season.