In a showdown that was every bit the defensive battle fans anticipated, the top-ranked Michigan Wolverines clashed with the formidable No. 3 Duke Blue Devils. Both teams, known for their defensive prowess, turned the court into a battlefield where shots were contested fiercely, and every point was hard-earned.
From the tip-off, Yaxel Lendeborg was the star of the show for Michigan. The graduate forward wasted no time, racking up 12 points in just over five minutes with flawless shooting. His ability to drive and dish opened up opportunities for his teammates, keeping Duke on their toes.
Duke, however, had its own offensive weapons ready to counter. With star forward Cameron Boozer orchestrating the offense, the Blue Devils spread the floor effectively.
Boozer's presence was a magnet for defenders, creating space for his teammates to exploit. Michigan's big men found themselves in early foul trouble, giving Boozer the chance to capitalize on mismatches.
As the first half progressed, both teams struggled to maintain their shooting rhythm. Lendeborg continued to find success, but his teammates went cold, and Duke's offense also hit a lull. The game turned into a defensive grind, with both sides combining for a mere 8-for-26 start in the second half.
Junior center Aday Mara re-entered the fray for Michigan, protecting the paint with authority. Yet, the Wolverines couldn't convert their defensive stops into points, as Duke's defensive rotations smothered their attempts.
With Duke holding a 53-46 lead, Michigan caught a break when Boozer picked up his fourth foul with under nine minutes left. This opened the door for Michigan to force turnovers and claw their way back. Lendeborg's timely three-pointer brought the Wolverines within one, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
In the final moments, both offenses came alive, trading baskets in a nail-biting sequence. Duke clung to a 66-63 lead with just 30 seconds remaining.
When Duke's Patrick Ngongba missed a layup, he quickly grabbed his own rebound, allowing his team to run down the clock. Michigan was forced to foul, sending Duke guard Isaiah Evans to the line.
Evans calmly sank both free throws, sealing the victory for the Blue Devils.
This game was a testament to the defensive capabilities of both squads, but it was Duke who emerged victorious, showcasing their resilience and strategic execution down the stretch.