Duke University secured its 23rd ACC Tournament championship at the Spectrum Center on March 15, 2025, marking its first title since 2023. The top-seeded Blue Devils triumphed over the second-seeded Louisville Cardinals with a 73-62 victory, demonstrating resilience and skill throughout the game.
The championship match unfolded dramatically, as Louisville initially led at halftime, holding onto a five-point advantage. This deficit matched Duke’s largest halftime shortfall of the season, which also occurred moments before during their game against Georgia Tech. But the Blue Devils rallied impressively after the break, outscoring Louisville 40 to 24 to seal the victory.
Many of Duke's key players contributed significantly to this turnaround. Tyrese Proctor, Sion James, and Kon Knueppel combined for 32 points during the second half, effectively outscoring the entire Louisville squad. The defensive unit was equally effective, with Patrick Ngonba and Khaman Maluach collecting multiple blocks at pivotal moments, helping shift the game’s momentum firmly in Duke's favor.
Duke's recent performances have set the stage for their entry to the NCAA tournament. The Blue Devils headlined the ACC tourney after finishing the regular season as the No. 1 team ranked by the AP Top 25 poll. Coach Jon Scheyer, now leading Duke for the third year, previously clinched his first ACC championship title during the 2022-2023 season and has continued to drive his team to success this season.
Before facing Louisville, Duke exhibited prowess by defeating No. 5 seed North Carolina 74-71 on March 14, 2025, overcoming near-control for most of the match. Their victory also followed triumph against No. 8 seed Georgia Tech, whom they defeated 78-70 two days earlier on March 13.
The successful culmination of their tournament run ensures Duke enters Selection Sunday as a lock for one of the prestigious No. 1 seeds when the NCAA committee reveals its bracket of 68 teams. This milestone would be particularly significant, as it would mark the first time since 2018-19, when Duke advanced to the Elite Eight, and adds urgency for their supporters and players alike.
Duke's entry as the top-seeded contender heralds hope for fans as March Madness approaches. The confidence instilled by winning the ACC title on the heels of the regular season will undoubtedly galvanize their efforts as they strive for national acclaim.
Simultaneously, Clemson found itself with quite the embarrassing and surreal moment prior to Louisville's game, as they were locked out of their locker room at halftime during their game against Louisville on March 14, 2025. While Duke went on to celebrate its title, the Clemson Tigers had to huddle up in the hallways of the Spectrum Center for halftime. Coach Brad Brownell was caught trying to deliver his halftime strategy to his players seated on the floor disseminated out of their usual preparation space.
This incident marks one of the just ejected mishaps seen during this year’s tournaments. Nevertheless, it emphasizes the unpredictability not just of collegiate basketball games but the logistical aspects surrounding them.
Despite any mishaps, Louisville's challenges running up to the championship against Duke will remain fresh as they faced extensive expectations. According to reports, this championship clash was set to be highly contested; Louisville was aiming for the upset but fell short against Duke’s clutch performance.
Now, all eyes will be on the upcoming NCAA tournament and how these teams will perform at the national stage as March Madness begins. Duke’s victory resounds through the specters of championships past, reflecting on its storied history and reiterate their aim at reclaiming glory through yet another successful NCAA run. Fans remain hopeful and curious how far their Blue Devils can go this season.