In a prominent college basketball matchup, Duke University’s standout freshman, Cooper Flagg, made headlines with a remarkable performance against Pittsburgh, leading the Blue Devils to a decisive 76-47 victory on Tuesday night. Flagg, who hails from Maine, showcased his skills by scoring 14 of his 19 points in the second half, highlighted by a sensational coast-to-coast dunk that electrified the crowd.
Duke’s victory was bolstered by fellow freshman Kon Knueppel, who added 17 points and hit four 3-pointers, contributing to an impressive team effort. The Blue Devils now hold a record of 13-2 overall and remain unbeaten in the Atlantic Coast Conference with a 5-0 record.
Pittsburgh struggled throughout the game, managing only 31% shooting from the field. Cameron Corhen led the Panthers with 11 points, yet the team faced challenges as they went the final eight minutes without scoring. Despite their earlier success, winning five straight games since a loss to Mississippi State on December 4, the Panthers could not catch up after trailing 34-24 at halftime.
Duke’s defense, ranked third nationally in efficiency, played a crucial role in the outcome. The Blue Devils ended the game with an impressive run, scoring the final 18 points. A pivotal moment came when Flagg intercepted a pass and executed an impressive dunk that energized the fans, known as the “Cameron Crazies,” who were in high spirits throughout the match.
As both teams look ahead, Pittsburgh will host Louisville, while Duke prepares to face Notre Dame in their next outings. This season, the Blue Devils appear to be hitting their stride, presenting a promising outlook for their upcoming games in both conference play and beyond.
This match not only highlights the emerging talent of Cooper Flagg but also illustrates the competitive spirit of college basketball, where teams strive for excellence week after week. Fans can remain hopeful as both Duke and Pittsburgh continue their journey through the season.