Duke’s dominant run in the ACC hit a roadblock against Wake Forest, forcing the second-ranked Blue Devils to confront their vulnerabilities. Playing in a hostile environment, they battled through turnovers and poor shooting to secure a 63-56 win. Head coach Jon Scheyer emphasized the importance of learning to win tough games, particularly in preparation for the NCAA tournament. Despite an uncharacteristically rough performance, the victory demonstrated the team’s ability to adapt and persevere under pressure.
Offensive Struggles Amid Wake Forest’s Pressure
Duke entered the game as an offensive juggernaut, shooting over 50% in seven straight games and winning ACC matchups by an average of 23 points. However, Wake Forest disrupted their rhythm, with turnovers and missed shots defining the contest. The Blue Devils missed their first 13 shots in the second half, allowing the Demon Deacons to erase a 15-point deficit and take a six-point lead. This uncharacteristic performance highlighted areas for improvement in handling adversity.
Freshman standout Cooper Flagg and graduate transfer Mason Gillis stepped up in crucial moments to guide Duke’s comeback. Flagg scored 15 of his 24 points in the second half, anchoring a seven-possession scoring streak that swung momentum back to Duke. Gillis added a pivotal three-pointer during this stretch. Their leadership and timely contributions exemplified Duke’s ability to regroup and deliver under intense pressure, ultimately securing the hard-fought win.
Zone Defense Provides a Strategic Edge
In a surprising tactical shift, head coach Jon Scheyer deployed a zone defense, a rarity for the team. Duke executed the zone for about six possessions, limiting Wake Forest to a single basket during that stretch. This strategic adjustment unsettled the Demon Deacons and showcased the team’s versatility. Scheyer credited preseason preparation and emphasized the importance of having alternative defensive schemes available. The zone defense proved instrumental in stalling Wake Forest’s momentum.
Despite recording season lows in scoring and shooting percentage, along with 16 turnovers, Duke maintained their unbeaten ACC record. Players like Gillis recognized the game as a preview of the challenges faced in March, where adaptability and resilience are crucial. The Blue Devils’ ability to make adjustments and secure the win underscores their preparedness for high-stakes games. This victory highlighted their capacity to overcome adversity and strengthen their pursuit of a Final Four appearance.
