TUCSON, Ariz. — Arizona, known for its iconic Grand Canyon, was a witness to an exhilarating college basketball matchup between ranked teams as No. 12 Duke faced off against No. 17 Arizona in a sold-out McKale Memorial Center. Duke emerged victorious with a score of 69-55, marking a significant win early in the season for head coach Jon Scheyer and his squad.
Duke’s defense played a pivotal role in securing the win, holding Arizona to just 55 points and outperforming them on the boards with a 13-rebound advantage. Scheyer praised his team’s resilience, emphasizing their character and teamwork despite recent setbacks.
A standout moment in the game came from freshman Kon Knueppel, who, after struggling earlier, made two crucial three-pointers that widened Duke’s lead in the final minutes. The Blue Devils’ height advantage in the post was evident, particularly after Arizona’s 7-foot-2 center Motiejus Krivas faced foul trouble, limiting the Wildcats’ ability to contest Duke’s inside presence.
Despite some early turnover issues that allowed Arizona to stay within striking distance, Duke’s defense dominated in the second half, stifling the Wildcats’ pick-and-roll plays and minimizing second-chance opportunities. Duke’s strong shooting from deep, especially in response to Arizona’s intense full-court press, helped solidify their lead.
Duke’s graduate guard Sion James emerged as a key player, contributing significantly across multiple aspects of the game, much to Scheyer’s praise. While Arizona struggled with their shot selection and offensive consistency, particularly from the three-point line, Duke maintained their composure and effectively utilized their size and depth.
The matchup showcased the intensity of college basketball and underscored Duke’s potential as they prepare for a challenging schedule ahead, including an upcoming bout against No. 1 Kansas.
This victory not only boosts Duke’s confidence but also sets a hopeful tone for the remainder of the season, highlighting their capability to compete against top-tier teams. Fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups as the season unfolds.