Duke Heads Back to the Garden for Showdown with Texas Tech
The lights of Madison Square Garden are no stranger to Duke basketball. And tonight, the Blue Devils return to the world’s most famous arena for a primetime clash against No. 19 Texas Tech - a matchup that not only carries national implications but also a bit of déjà vu.
Duke, ranked No. 3 in both the AP and Coaches Polls, enters the contest a perfect 11-0 and riding high after a dominant 97-73 win over Lipscomb. That win wasn’t just another notch in the win column - it marked head coach Jon Scheyer’s 100th career victory.
In doing so, Scheyer became the fastest coach in ACC history to reach the century mark. It’s another milestone in a season that’s shaping up to be his best yet in Durham.
The Blue Devils have already shown they can handle the spotlight. They’re 4-0 against ranked opponents this season, including a gritty 78-66 victory over Kansas at this very venue back in November. Now they’ll look to extend their unbeaten run against a Texas Tech squad that’s still trying to find its footing against top-tier competition.
The Red Raiders come in at 8-3 after putting up 101 points in a shootout win over Northern Colorado. Offense hasn’t been the issue - but closing the deal against ranked teams has.
Texas Tech is 0-3 in those matchups so far, falling to Illinois (81-77), Purdue (85-56), and Arkansas (93-86). They’ve shown flashes, but tonight is another chance to prove they belong in that upper echelon.
This isn’t the first time these two programs have met in the Garden. In fact, it’s a bit of a full-circle moment.
On this exact date seven years ago, Duke topped Texas Tech 69-58 in the same building. That was a battle between two defensive-minded squads.
This year’s version? Expect more fireworks.
Where to Watch
Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, with streaming available on Fubo for those looking to catch the action online. The game is part of the SentinelOne Classic - and with two ranked teams squaring off under the MSG lights, it’s got all the makings of a December classic.
Duke’s Dominant Start
It’s not just the record that’s impressive - it’s how Duke has gotten there. Since opening the season with an exhibition win over UCF, the Blue Devils have taken down big names and done it in convincing fashion. Their resume includes wins over Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, and Florida, with each game offering a different test - and each time, Duke has found a way to pass.
Scheyer’s group is deep, disciplined, and dangerous. They’ve scored 90+ points in six games already, and when they need to grind it out, they’ve shown they can win ugly too - just ask Michigan State or Florida.
The Road Ahead
Tonight’s game is the final non-conference test before Duke enters the heart of ACC play. After Texas Tech, the Blue Devils will close out 2025 with a home game against Georgia Tech on New Year’s Eve before hitting the road for back-to-back conference matchups against Florida State and Louisville.
It’s a gauntlet, no doubt. But if Duke keeps playing the way they have through the first 11 games, they’ll be in the thick of the national title conversation come March.
2025-26 Duke Schedule Snapshot
- Nov. 4: Beat Texas (75-60)
- Nov. 18: Beat Kansas at MSG (78-66)
- Nov. 27: Beat Arkansas (80-71)
- Dec. 2: Edged Florida (67-66)
- Dec. 6: Beat Michigan State on the road (66-60)
- Dec. 16: Beat Lipscomb (97-73)
- Dec. 20: vs. Texas Tech at MSG
What to Watch Tonight
This one’s got it all - a top-three team trying to keep its perfect season alive, a hungry Texas Tech squad looking for a breakthrough, and a big-stage setting that tends to bring out the best in both programs. Duke’s balance and depth have been their calling card, but Texas Tech can score in bunches if they get hot.
If the Blue Devils can control the tempo and keep the Red Raiders from turning this into a track meet, they’ll like their chances. But don’t sleep on Texas Tech - they’ve been battle-tested and are overdue for a signature win.
Get your popcorn ready. This one’s got December drama written all over it.