Duke's Defensive Masterclass Edges Out Top-Ranked Michigan
In a thrilling showdown at Capital One Arena, No. 3 Duke emerged victorious over No.
1 Michigan with a 68-63 win, showcasing a defensive performance that stifled the Wolverines in the second half. Duke's defense clamped down, allowing just eight field goals in the final 20 minutes, a testament to their relentless pressure and strategic prowess.
Cameron Boozer was a standout, flirting with a triple-double by racking up 18 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, along with two crucial blocks. Boozer was instrumental in Duke's closing moments, scoring seven of the team's last nine points.
Patrick Ngongba II also played a pivotal role, contributing 11 points, two blocks, and a crucial offensive rebound in the final minute. Isaiah Evans and Caleb Foster added to Duke's offensive firepower, scoring 14 and 12 points respectively.
Duke's victory adds another feather to their cap, marking their third win in four encounters against the nation's top-ranked teams. The Blue Devils have a history of rising to the occasion, with previous wins over Gonzaga and Syracuse when ranked in the top five.
Game Breakdown
Michigan started strong with a quick 4-0 lead, but Duke responded with an Isaiah Evans dunk and a three-pointer from Dame Sarr to quickly level the score. The teams exchanged leads early on, with Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg briefly putting the Wolverines ahead. However, a Maliq Brown dunk saw Duke reclaim a 12-11 lead heading into the first timeout.
Michigan then surged ahead with a 6-0 run, but Duke's resilience shone through. Cameron Boozer's free throws narrowed the gap, and Caleb Foster's back-to-back threes pushed Duke into the lead. The defenses tightened, and the first half ended with Duke ahead 35-33 after a late surge, capped by Patrick Ngongba II's clutch free throws.
The second half began with Duke extending their run to 9-0, but Michigan fought back, keeping the game within reach. The Blue Devils maintained their edge, with timely contributions from Ngongba II and Foster, who helped extend the lead to 51-44.
As the clock wound down, Michigan made a final push with a 7-0 run, closing the gap to 57-56. Duke, however, responded with a quick four-point burst to regain control. Elliot Cadeau's critical three-pointer and free throws from Cadeau and Evans sealed the deal, with Ngongba II's offensive rebound in the final moments ensuring the victory.
Looking Ahead
With this win, No. 3 Duke (25-2, 13-1 ACC) sets their sights on their next conference matchup against Notre Dame.
The game tips off at Purcell Pavilion, and fans can catch the action live on ESPN. The Blue Devils are riding high, and their performance against Michigan serves as a strong statement as they continue their impressive season.