Duke basketball recently made headlines with a stunning victory over the Auburn Tigers, a game that showcased not only the talents of star Cooper Flagg but also highlighted the impressive performance of freshman Isaiah Evans. Following the match, Flagg expressed his pride in Evans, underscoring the guard’s key role in the game.
Coming off the bench, Evans contributed an impressive 18 points, hitting six out of nine shots, all from three-point range. With his explosive performance, he played a pivotal role in helping the ninth-ranked Blue Devils secure a win against the second-ranked Tigers. Reflecting on his performance, Evans referred to himself as the team’s “flamethrower,” a role he relished.
“I’m just happy I could contribute,” Evans said after the game. “It was amazing… Getting meaningful buckets, getting stops on defense, getting timely rebounds; it just felt amazing out there.” His enthusiasm was matched by supportive words from teammates, who encouraged him to stay ready and focused during his transition into college basketball.
Evans also shared his experience of playing in front of the home crowd at Cameron Indoor Stadium, stating, “It just makes me keep going.” He acknowledged the importance of the win not just for the scoreboard but for team morale, saying, “Once you actually do it, you grow as a team. Tonight was a really important game.”
Flagg also praised Evans, pointing out his dedication and hard work despite not starting initially. “He’s one of the hardest workers on the team,” Flagg remarked, highlighting Evans’ ability to stay prepared for opportunities.
With this victory, Duke now holds a record of 6-2 for the season and remains undefeated at home with a 5-0 record. The Blue Devils’ next challenge will come against Louisville on Sunday, where Evans and his teammates will be looking to continue their strong performance.
This victory not only boosts Duke’s confidence but also paints a bright future for the team as they integrate young talents like Evans into their game plan. The upcoming match against Louisville will be an exhilarating opportunity for Duke to further prove their mettle. Fans can look forward to seeing more of Evans and his contributions as the season progresses, promising an exciting basketball journey ahead.