Duke Overpowers Syracuse as Foul Trouble, Rebounding Woes Stall Orange Comeback Bid
Syracuse came into Sunday’s matchup riding high, undefeated at home and looking to make a statement in ACC play. But Duke had other plans - and the Blue Devils, led by reigning ACC Rookie of the Year Toby Fournier, delivered a performance that left little doubt about who controlled the game.
Duke’s 71-51 win at the JMA Wireless Dome wasn’t just a road victory - it was a showcase of discipline, rebounding dominance, and timely scoring. For Syracuse, it was a frustrating afternoon defined by missed opportunities, foul trouble, and a battle they couldn’t quite turn around.
A Promising Start, Then the Tides Turned
The Orange (11-2, 1-1 ACC) opened with energy and execution, jumping out to a 14-7 lead late in the first quarter after Dominique Darius knocked down a pair of free throws. But from there, the game flipped - fast.
Duke responded with a 14-0 run that stretched into the second quarter, seizing momentum and never giving it back. Syracuse didn’t score again until Darius hit a jumper nearly five minutes into the second frame, but by then, Duke had already taken control.
Foul Trouble Changes the Game
One of the biggest turning points came early in the second quarter when SU center Uche Izoje, one of the team’s most impactful players on both ends of the floor, picked up her second foul and was forced to the bench. Her absence opened the door for Duke to exploit the paint - and they didn’t hesitate.
By halftime, Duke had built an 11-point lead, and Izoje’s limited minutes were a key factor. She came into the game averaging 13.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and ranking among the national leaders in blocked shots.
But foul trouble kept her from finding a rhythm, and she ultimately fouled out with just under seven minutes left in the game. In just 18 minutes of action, she managed eight points, four rebounds, and two blocks.
Physicality, Rebounding, and Second Chances
Syracuse’s biggest Achilles heel on the day? Defensive rebounding.
Duke grabbed 17 offensive boards, consistently extending possessions and wearing down the Orange defense. With Izoje in and out of the lineup due to fouls, SU struggled to control the glass - and it showed.
Even when Syracuse managed to score, they couldn’t string together the stops they needed to close the gap. A turnaround jumper by Izoje early in the third quarter cut the deficit to 11 - the closest it would get the rest of the way.
Darius Leads the Charge, But It’s Not Enough
Darius did everything she could to keep Syracuse in it, finishing with a team-high 18 points. She had a few big moments, including a deep 3-pointer that briefly sparked the crowd - but the celebration earned her a technical foul, and Duke answered right back with a layup from Jordan Wood.
Laila Phelia added a 3-pointer in the fourth, and Darius had a steal and fastbreak finish, but the Orange never found the sustained run they needed. Duke’s defense held firm, and the Blue Devils continued to capitalize on second-chance opportunities and Syracuse mistakes.
Fournier Shines for Duke
Toby Fournier was every bit the force she’s been advertised to be. The sophomore forward poured in a game-high 22 points, anchoring the Duke offense and setting the tone with her energy and poise. Whether it was finishing around the rim or stepping into mid-range looks, she consistently made the right plays.
What’s Next
This loss marked Syracuse’s first at home this season, and while the final score stings, there’s no time to dwell. The Orange will look to regroup quickly as they prepare to host Florida State on Thursday at 6 p.m.
If Syracuse wants to bounce back, they’ll need to clean up the defensive glass, stay out of foul trouble, and find ways to keep their star players on the floor. The talent is there - but in the ACC, execution is everything.