TUCSON, Arizona — Known for its breathtaking landscapes, the “Grand Canyon State” was the backdrop for a thrilling matchup on Friday night that had fans on the edge of their seats. A sold-out McKale Memorial Center in Tucson witnessed No. 12 Duke take on No. 17 Arizona, culminating in a decisive 69-55 victory for the Blue Devils. This win marks an important moment for head coach Jon Scheyer and his team, who continue to face formidable competition this month with two more potential top-10 matchups ahead.
The game showcased Duke’s defensive strength, as they restricted Arizona to just 55 points and dominated the rebounding game by a margin of 13. Scheyer attributed the win to his players’ resilience and teamwork. “It really started with the amazing character of the guys… able to bounce back after a tough loss,” he remarked postgame.
A key factor in Duke’s victory was their three-point shooting, highlighted by freshman Kon Knueppel, who redeemed earlier misses with two pivotal shots that helped solidify Duke’s lead in the closing minutes. Height also played a critical role, as Duke’s size advantage overwhelmed Arizona once 7-foot-2 Motiejus Krivas, a significant defensive player for the Wildcats, found himself in foul trouble.
While Arizona established some momentum with quick turnovers by Duke right after halftime, it was Duke’s defense that kept them from taking control of the game. The Wildcats struggled against Duke’s post defense, particularly in converting second-chance opportunities, while the Blue Devils regained their lead and held firm in the final minutes.
As the Blue Devils prepare for an upcoming challenge against No. 1 Kansas in Las Vegas, this victory not only serves as a confidence booster but also emphasizes their strong potential this season.
The positive takeaway from this encounter is that Duke is demonstrating growth and adaptability early in the season, reflecting the team’s commitment to improvement amidst challenges. As they look forward to more high-stakes games, the resilience shown against Arizona is a promising sign for Duke’s future on the court.