Duke’s Resilience Shines in ACC Tournament Quarterfinal
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The top-ranked Duke Blue Devils showcased their resilience on Thursday, overcoming injuries to star players Cooper Flagg and Maliq Brown to secure a 78-70 victory over the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. With this win, Duke advances to the semifinals of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Tournament.
Leading the charge for Duke was Kon Knueppel, who scored an impressive 28 points. Isaiah Evans contributed with 14 points, hitting four three-pointers, while Khaman Maluach added 14 points and nine rebounds, highlighting a strong team effort. Duke’s record now stands at an impressive 29-3, marking their ninth consecutive victory.
Flagg, the ACC Player of the Year, experienced a frustrating moment late in the first half when he landed awkwardly on Baye Ndongo’s foot while attempting to secure a rebound. After retreating to the bench to express his frustration, he was escorted to the locker room. Fortunately, Flagg returned to the bench in the second half without a boot, though he did not re-enter the game.
Additionally, Brown sustained a shoulder injury during the first half, leaving Duke with some depth challenges as they moved forward in the tournament.
Duncan Powell led Georgia Tech (17-16) with 24 points, but it was not enough to secure the win against the determined Blue Devils.
Highlights from Other Tournament Matches
In notable other tournament games, No. 2 Houston defeated Colorado 77-69, and No. 6 St. John’s overpowered Butler 78-57, showcasing impressive performances from their star players, signaling strong preparations for the upcoming semifinals. Houston’s Emanuel Sharpe scored 19 points, while RJ Luis Jr. led St. John’s with 20 points.
As the NCAA tournament approaches, these results are pivotal, reflecting the teams’ form and potential for success in the postseason.
For more details on the tournament, visit Yahoo Sports.
