DURHAM — Duke basketball showcased their might and determination on March 3, 2025, as they routed Wake Forest, 93-60, during their final game of the regular season at Cameron Indoor Stadium. This victory not only positioned the Blue Devils strongly for the upcoming tournaments but also secured them a share of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) regular-season championship, their first since 2022 and second of the last decade.
Leading the charge for Duke was freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, who turned heads once again with his remarkable performance. Flagg dazzled fans with 28 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three blocks, and two steals, affirming his status as the likely top pick of the upcoming NBA Draft. The win marks the end of Duke’s regular season with an impressive 27-3 record and 18-1 against ACC opponents. Notably, this game also kept Duke's record at home pristine at 17-0.
The game began with both teams struggling to find their footing. Just five minutes within, the score was knotted at 2-2. Yet, Duke quickly shook off the dust, demonstrating their signature defensive pressure and offensive prowess. They finished the first half with a solid 40-27 lead, thanks to Flagg who contributed ten points and several key assists. His performance ignited energy from the crowd of over 9,300 fans, who flooded Cameron Indoor Stadium with enthusiasm.
Head coach Jon Scheyer commented on the atmosphere and performance afterward, stating, "To finish it off the right way, to get win number 27, to get ACC win number 18, means a lot." The victory was significant, not just for the standings but as it demonstrated the depth and determination of the Blue Devils.
The second half saw Duke expand their lead decisively. Though Wake Forest managed to claw back to within seven points early on, Duke answered with vigor. Flagg spearheaded this surge, scoring each of the Blue Devils’ first seven points after the break, pushing the score to 51-25 during a dominating run. He was not only prolific on offense but also pivotal on defense, blocking shots and creating transition opportunities for his teammates.
Flagg's contributions were complemented by his teammates; Kon Knueppel added 17 points, Tyrese Proctor recorded 12 points, and both Sion James and Mason Gillis contributed 11 points each. Their collective efforts showcased Duke’s formidable roster, capable of dismantling even their most desperate opponents.
The intensity of the game was palpable, particularly as Wake Forest, needing this win for NCAA tournament hopes, tried fervently to find their rhythm. Yet, they found themselves overwhelmed, particularly as Duke activated their defensive gears, causing turnovers and capitalizing on offensive rebounds. Scheyer also noted this resilience, saying, "It’s not normal what these guys are doing." Their work ethic and cohesion were on full display against Wake’s faltering defense.
Within the last minutes of play, Duke fans erupted, chanting for Flagg to return for one more year, expressing their support and admiration for the star freshman. He was pulled from the game with just over three minutes left, allowing the jubilant crowd to celebrate his last home appearance of the season. During his time on the court, Flagg did not disappoint, hitting 3-of-6 from beyond the arc and shooting 10-of-16 from the field.
Proctor, who recently returned from injury, also played exceptionally, contributing key points and assists, which only fortified Duke's chances moving forward. He remarked on his desire to play, saying, "I love basketball. It’s as simple as...I just want to come out here and play every game I can." His fortitude and leadership are invaluable assets as they head toward the postseason.
Looking forward, Duke's next challenge lies just across Tobacco Road against their intense rival North Carolina on March 8, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET. The stakes are high: not only continuing their winning streak but aiming for outright possession of the ACC championship.
The emotional weight of senior night played out across the court as veteran players like Gillis celebrated their final moments at Cameron. With memories made and legacies being built, DukeBasketball remains focused, ready to tackle the coming weeks filled with championship aspirations. Indeed, the Blue Devils are poised, expecting to make deep runs both in the ACC and NCAA tournaments.
With the momentum of this win, all eyes will be on Duke as they venture forth. The synergy witnessed on the court, coupled with the electric atmosphere of Cameron Indoor Stadium, reminds fans and players alike why they love the game. With Flagg leading the charge, Duke appears ready to make their mark at the pinnacle of college basketball once again.