Duke basketball breakout star recognized by ACC for jaw-dropping play

A Duke basketball breakout star was recognized by the ACC for his recent play.  

The season came to a screeching halt for the Duke basketball program in the ACC Tournament after a COVID-19 positive test disqualified the Blue Devils from the competition.

After once thinking that the positive test would end the season for Duke, there are now thoughts that the Blue Devils would participate in the NCAA Tournament if they are selected.

It’s unlikely that Mike Krzyzewski’s team will get an at-large bid to the dance, but the questions still remain as Sunday night’s Selection Show inches closer.

However, prior to the abrupt ending to the ACC Tournament for the five-time National Champions, freshman center Mark Williams was emerging as a breakout star for the Blue Devils and the ACC took notice.

The 7-foot center was named to the Second Team All-ACC Tournament after posting 13 points, one rebound, one assist, two steals, and one block in a 86-51 victory over Boston College and 23 points, 19 rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block in a 70-56 victory over Louisville.

ALSO READ: Duke put in impossible situation entering Selection Sunday

Willams was a combined 15-of-21 from the floor in his two outings with a total of 57 minutes played.

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets defeated the Florida State Seminoles in the ACC Tournament Championship Game as Michael DeVoe was named as the Most Valuable Player of the event.

Duke basketball center one of brightest futures in country as season closes

In the regular season, Mark Williams started to emerge after overcoming a learning curve in getting adjusted to the speed and physicality of the college game.

The IMG Academy (Fla.) product averaged 7.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game on 66.4-percent shooting from the field.

ALSO READ: Coach K says Blue Devils are in NCAA Tournament

Mark Williams scored at least 13 points in five of his last six games to close the season.

Should things go as expected this offseason for the Blue Devils, Duke will enter the 2021-22 season with one of the most formidable frontcourt duos in the country with sophomore Mark Williams and incoming freshman forward Paolo Banchero.