Selection Sunday is rapidly approaching. However, before the bracket is announced Duke has a challenging slate of games and the always daunting ACC tournament to navigate.
With Wednesday’s victory at Virginia and the high-scoring victory over Wake Forest, Duke has everything to play for in the last couple weeks. Here are the remaining games with predictions (written in pencil and with a readily available eraser):
Related Story: Game Preview: Duke vs. Syracuse
February 22 – Duke at Syracuse:
The first and only match up with Syracuse should be a great game. The Orange were left for dead in mid January but have since rebounded to place itself firmly on the bubble. As of today, Syracuse boasts a 5-1 home record in conference play with the only loss coming against Louisville in overtime. Expect a very close game.
Prediction: Duke 78 – Syracuse 76.
February 25 – Duke at Miami:
Duke’s road trip continues with a trip to the ‘Canes. In the first match up, Duke trailed by 11 at half only to roar to life after halftime in route to a 70 – 58 win. Expect a more mature performance from the Blue Devils this time. Regardless, Miami will be up for a fight on its home floor.
Prediction: Duke 81 – Miami 72.
February 28 – Florida State at Duke:
On January 11, Florida State announced itself to the ACC and the rest of the country as true contenders with a dominant display against the Blue Devils. FSU won 88 – 72 and it could have been worse. However, senior leader Amile Jefferson missed the game with a bone bruise in his foot. This time Amile should be (mostly) healthy. Expect his return and the hallowed halls of Cameron Indoor Stadium to give the Blue Devils the edge.
Prediction: Duke 86 – FSU 79.
March 4 – Duke at UNC:
As I am sure you remember, Duke’s best performance of the year came against the Tar Heels. Behind a huge game from Allen, Kennard, and Tatum, Duke pulled away late for an 86 – 78 victory. In all likelihood, this game will determine the champion of the ACC regular season whether or not that includes Duke. In recent years, Duke has found some success in Chapel Hill (think Austin Rivers). However, it pains me to say that UNC will win in a thriller.
Prediction: UNC 86 – Duke 84.
Next: Tatum Earns Second Straight Weekly ACC Honor
Regardless of these predictions, the final four games of the season should provide difficult tests which will prepare the Blue Devils for the trials of the NCAA tournament. It will be an exciting finish to the regular season!
