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Blue Devils Set for Rematch With Clemson in ACC Tourney Opener

By Chris Brown

Feb 11, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) shoots a three point shot against Clemson Tigers forward Donte Grantham (15) in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 11, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) shoots a three point shot against Clemson Tigers forward Donte Grantham (15) in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /
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Duke Basketball will open the 2017 Atlantic Coast Conference tournament with a second round matchup against the Clemson Tigers today.

The Blue Devils figured out who they will face in their ACC Tournament opener this afternoon after Clemson defeated NC State in the first round. Duke and Clemson will play for the second time this season for a chance to face Louisville in the conference quarterfinals.

Next: Duke Schedules Series With Non-Conference Opponent

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    • After losing to UNC in their regular season finale, Duke fell to the 5th seed in the conference tournament. That meant the Blue Devils were not able to earn a double-bye in the ACC Tournament and only get one day off before competing again in the second round. They will face Clemson, who dispatched NC State 75-61 in the first round.

    Earlier this season, Duke Basketball narrowly defeated Clemson in Cameron. Sophomore guard Luke Kennard led the Blue Devils to a 64-62 victory with the Tigers missing a chance to upset at the buzzer. The game was a potential trap game for Duke right after their home rivalry win over UNC. The Tigers are led by All-ACC senior forward Jaron Blossomgame. While he struggled in the first contest between these two teams, guard Shelton Mitchell torched the Duke defense recording 23 points.

    The Tigers are a talented team and desperate for a win to get into the NCAA. ESPN Bracketology expert Joe Lunardi has Clemson in the Next Four Out, and a Duke win will help their resume to get in the tournament.

    Next: Can Duke Win the NCAA Title?

    Duke and Clemson will play in the ACC Tournament at 2:00 in the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on ESPN. Mike Krzyzewski will have to make the decision whether to compete for the title to gain momentum for March Madness or rest and prepare for a national title.

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