Michigan State came up just short against Duke in their December clash at the Breslin Center. A tough finish allowed the Blue Devils to escape with a significant road victory. While Cameron Boozer was a standout, it was the performances of starting point guard Caleb Foster and the defensive prowess of Patrick Ngongba II that sealed the deal for Duke.
However, the Blue Devils might be facing a tough road ahead without these key players. As the regular season wraps up, any injuries now could potentially end a player's season. Coach Jon Scheyer has confirmed that both Foster and Ngongba II will miss at least the ACC Tournament, with one potentially sidelined for a longer period.
Foster, who underwent foot surgery recently, is eager to return, though it's uncertain how feasible that is. As Duke’s fourth-leading scorer, averaging 8.5 points and 2.8 assists, his absence would leave a significant gap at point guard if he misses the NCAA Tournament.
Ngongba II, on the other hand, is Duke’s third-leading scorer with 10.7 points per game and their second-leading rebounder, averaging 6.0 rebounds. His contributions include leading the team in blocks and shooting over 60% from the field. In their December matchup against Michigan State, Ngongba II recorded six points, six rebounds, and two blocks.
Losing both players would mean Duke is down two starters, which might have Michigan State fans hopeful about their chances in the same tournament region. Historically, Michigan State and Duke often find themselves in the same bracket. Although they haven't always faced each other due to one team bowing out early, they've clashed four times in the last 15 years.
With Duke potentially short-handed, their vulnerability increases, especially considering they rely heavily on just three players averaging over 10 points. Michigan State, recalling their December encounter, might see this as an opportunity to capitalize if they meet again.