In the latest Bracketology update from CBS Sports, Duke continues to hold strong as the top seed in the East Region, maintaining its position as a formidable contender for the Final Four. Joining Duke on the No. 1 seed line are Michigan (Midwest), Arizona (West), and UConn (South).
Duke's consistent high seeding isn't a surprise, but what's turning heads is the resurgence of the ACC. The conference is on track for nine NCAA Tournament bids, trailing only the SEC's 11. This marks a significant improvement from last year's four ACC teams and is the best projection since 2018.
Delving into CBS's bracket predictions, Duke boasts an impressive 26-2 record and holds the No. 1 ranking in the NET. Their Quadrant records further cement their resume: 12-2 in Quad 1 games, 5-0 in Quad 2, 1-0 in Quad 3, and 8-0 in Quad 4.
If the tournament started today, Duke would face a 16-seed from the East First Four, featuring Howard vs. UMBC.
Duke's ascent to the top seed was propelled by a pivotal win over then No. 1 Michigan at a neutral site, catapulting them to the No. 1 overall spot in Bracketology as February winds down.
Following that, Duke made a statement with a commanding 100-56 victory over Notre Dame in South Bend. They set a season record with 54 first-half points and secured their largest-ever win against the Irish, handing Notre Dame its worst home loss since 1898.
Looking ahead, Duke's final three regular-season games are against projected NCAA Tournament teams. They kick off with a showdown against Virginia, the projected No. 3 seed in the Midwest. Next, they face NC State, the projected No. 8 seed in the Midwest, followed by a season finale against rival North Carolina, the projected No. 6 seed in the South, at Cameron Indoor Stadium.