In a thrilling showdown, the Duke Blue Devils pulled off a stunning upset against the top-ranked Michigan Wolverines, winning 68-63 on the road. This victory not only silenced critics but also showcased Duke's ability to perform under pressure.
Freshman sensation Cameron Boozer was instrumental, leading the team with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. His performance was a testament to the Blue Devils' resilience, especially in tight situations. Duke maintained their composure, holding the lead in the final minute, a critical area of focus as March approaches.
Head coach Jon Scheyer addressed the media, dispelling concerns about the team’s ability to close out games. "These guys have won a lot of close games," Scheyer emphasized.
He highlighted the contributions of players like Caleb Foster, who have consistently delivered in high-stakes moments. Scheyer acknowledged the challenges of maintaining an undefeated record but praised his team’s ability to learn and grow from each experience.
This season, Duke has been impressive, with only two losses, both nail-biters decided at the buzzer. In December, they faced a tough defeat against Texas Tech, losing 82-81 after a hard-fought battle. Another narrow loss came against North Carolina, where a last-second three-pointer sealed their fate.
Despite these setbacks, Duke has shown remarkable poise, especially in challenging environments. Their recent victory against Michigan is a strong indicator of their potential as they head into the crucial part of the season.