Duke CRUISED to another ACC Tournament Championship!

The Duke Blue Devils clinched their 23rd Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Tournament title on March 15, 2025, with a decisive 73-62 victory over the Louisville Cardinals at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This triumph not only reaffirmed Duke’s dominance in the ACC but also solidified their status as a top contender for the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

A Testament to Depth and Resilience

Competing without their star player, Cooper Flagg, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury, Duke showcased remarkable depth and resilience. Head coach Jon Scheyer’s strategic acumen was evident as he orchestrated a game plan that capitalized on the team’s strengths, ensuring a seamless transition in Flagg’s absence.

Key Contributions

• Tyrese Proctor: The sophomore guard led Duke’s scoring efforts with 19 points, demonstrating versatility and leadership on the court.
• Kon Knueppel: Stepping up in a significant way, Knueppel contributed 18 points and was named the ACC Tournament MVP. citeturn0news21
• Sion James: The freshman guard added 15 points, showcasing his potential and adaptability in high-pressure situations.
• Khaman Maluach: The senior forward’s performance, including 8 points and 10 rebounds, provided the necessary physical presence in the paint.

Defensive Prowess

Duke’s defense was particularly noteworthy, especially in the second half. The Blue Devils limited Louisville to just 25.7% shooting, disrupting the Cardinals’ offensive flow and initiating a pivotal 12-0 run that shifted the game’s momentum in Duke’s favor. citeturn0news21

Coaching Excellence

Coach Jon Scheyer’s leadership has been instrumental in Duke’s recent successes. Securing his second ACC Tournament title in three years, Scheyer has demonstrated adaptability and strategic brilliance, effectively managing roster challenges and maximizing player potential. citeturn0search1

Historical Significance

This victory holds historical weight, marking Duke’s 23rd ACC Tournament title and reinforcing their legacy as a powerhouse in college basketball. The win also highlighted the team’s ability to overcome adversity, playing without a key player and still securing the championship. citeturn0news21

Looking Ahead

As the Blue Devils transition to the NCAA Tournament, their performance in the ACC Championship serves as a strong indicator of their preparedness. The team’s depth, resilience, and strategic play position them as serious contenders for the national title. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching Duke’s progress, anticipating how they will leverage their ACC success on the national stage.

For a visual recap of Duke’s championship victory, you can watch the highlight reel below: