Duke Heads to Blacksburg: Blue Devils Set for ACC Clash with Virginia Tech
It’s almost game day for Duke, and while the Cameron Crazies won’t be packing the stands this time, the Blue Devils are back in action - and they’re hitting the road.
No. 4 Duke is heading north for a Saturday showdown with Virginia Tech, a team that’s been tougher than its conference record suggests. The Hokies haven’t found much consistency in ACC play, but don’t let the standings fool you - this is a group with enough talent to make things interesting, especially at home in Cassell Coliseum.
Game Details: How to Watch
- Date & Time: Saturday, Jan. 31, at 12 p.m. ET
- Location: Cassell Coliseum, Blacksburg, VA
- TV/Streaming: ESPN, fuboTV
- Radio: The Varsity Network
This will be Duke’s first visit to Cassell since January 21, 2024 - a building that’s known for its energy and tough environment, even if the Hokies haven’t been able to capitalize on it fully this season.
As usual, the Blue Devils land in a prime broadcast slot. When you’ve been in the AP Top 10 all year, national attention follows - and ESPN will once again carry the game.
Duke Injury Report: Ufochukwu Still Out
The Blue Devils will be without senior center Ifeanyi Ufochukwu for another game. The Rice transfer has yet to suit up this season due to lingering issues, and his absence continues to thin out Duke’s frontcourt rotation.
The good news for head coach Jon Scheyer? Everyone else on the depth chart is expected to be available for this road test. With the rest of the roster intact, Duke still brings plenty of firepower and depth into the matchup.
Virginia Tech Update: Johnson’s Status in Question
On the other side, Virginia Tech is monitoring the status of sophomore forward Tyler Johnson, who hasn’t played since late December. Head coach Mike Young said Johnson could be closer to returning by Saturday, but his availability remains uncertain. If he’s cleared, it would be a timely boost for the Hokies, who could use his size and versatility against Duke’s athleticism.
Series History: Duke Dominates, But Hokies Have Had Their Moments
This will be the 44th meeting between these two programs, a rivalry that dates back to 1964. Duke leads the all-time series 33-10, a commanding edge built over decades of dominance. Still, Virginia Tech has had its moments - particularly in Blacksburg, where the Hokies have pulled off a few memorable upsets over the years.
Duke enters this one as the favorite, but ACC road games are never easy - especially in a venue like Cassell Coliseum. Expect a battle.