No. 2 Duke continued to showcase its dominance with a resounding 83-54 victory over Syracuse on February 5, 2025, at the JMA Wireless Dome. The win, which extended the Blue Devils’ winning streak to 16 games, highlighted not only their depth but also their remarkable team chemistry.
Balanced Scoring and Strong Defense
Duke’s offensive firepower was on full display as five players scored in double figures. Tyrese Proctor led the way with 16 points, while Kon Knueppel added 12. Cooper Flagg (11 points, 2 blocks), Isaiah Evans (10 points), and Sion James (10 points) all made significant contributions, proving that the Blue Devils can attack from multiple angles. This collective effort was a clear example of their depth, as Duke’s offense flowed seamlessly, with no single player dominating but each contributing when needed.
Defensively, Duke was just as impressive. They held Syracuse to a paltry 38.3% from the field and just 26.1% from beyond the arc. Duke’s ability to force turnovers also played a key role, as they scored 23 points off Syracuse’s mistakes. The Blue Devils displayed stifling defense that kept the Orange from ever gaining momentum.
Key Individual Contributions
Maliq Brown, in his return to Syracuse, made an impact on both ends of the floor with six points, eight rebounds, and three steals. His defensive presence was crucial in disrupting Syracuse’s offense.
Khaman Maluach also had a standout moment when he blocked a shot and then assisted Isaiah Evans for a layup, further underscoring Duke’s defensive effort and unselfish team play.
Team Chemistry Shines
Perhaps the most telling aspect of Duke’s win was their fluid ball movement, which reflected their chemistry as a team. One sequence, in particular, stood out as an example of their unselfish play. A fast-paced series of passes found its way to Brown for an easy layup, showcasing how well the Blue Devils work together on the floor. This was reminiscent of a vintage 1986 Boston Celtics play, where unselfishness and team effort led to success, and it demonstrated just how connected this Duke squad is.
Undefeated in the ACC
With this victory, Duke improved to 20-2 overall and maintained an undefeated 12-0 record in the ACC. Their remarkable chemistry and deep roster make them a formidable team, and they will look to keep this momentum going as they head into the latter part of the season.
Duke’s win over Syracuse was a perfect example of what makes this team so special: it’s not just about star power; it’s about the collective effort of a roster that knows how to play together, defend as a unit, and share the ball. As they continue their quest for a national title, their depth and chemistry will likely remain their biggest strengths.
