Duke's recent victory over Michigan was more than just a win; it was a statement. With a 68-63 triumph over the top-ranked Wolverines, the Blue Devils have positioned themselves as the frontrunners for the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament, according to the latest CBS Sports Bracketology update.
This wasn't a win built on fleeting moments of brilliance or lucky breaks. Duke showcased the kind of resilience and grit that are essential come March Madness. They pulled Michigan into a defensive battle, demonstrating the type of play that stands up when every point matters.
Let's talk defense. Michigan, a team averaging 90.6 points per game, was held to a mere 63 points, marking their lowest scoring game of the season. Duke's defense was relentless, allowing only eight field goals in the second half and holding Michigan to 8-for-28 shooting after the break.
Rebounding was another crucial battleground. Both teams came in with impressive rebounding margins (+9.8), but Duke outperformed, finishing with a +13 advantage on the boards, 41-28. This made them the first team to outrebound Michigan by double digits this season.
Cameron Boozer was the star of the show, putting on a performance that filled every stat column. He led Duke with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, nearly securing a triple-double. His defining moment came in the final minutes, scoring seven consecutive points, including a crucial three-pointer that extended Duke's lead to 64-58 with less than two minutes remaining.
So, why does this win shake up the top of the bracket? CBS Sports points out that this victory could serve as a tiebreaker in the eyes of the selection committee.
While Michigan still holds the top spots in NET, KenPom, and WAB rankings, Duke's 13 Quad 1 wins compared to Michigan's nine is a significant differentiator. With both teams boasting identical records, Saturday's performance could be the deciding factor.
In essence, Duke didn't just win a game; they crafted a compelling argument for their place at the top of the NCAA Tournament seeding. By taking Michigan's best shot, dominating the boards, and executing under pressure, Duke made a case that resonates far beyond the final score.