Blue Devils' Resilient Comeback Secures Victory Against Short-Handed Mustangs
Evans' Heroics Fuel Duke's Second-Half Surge
Isaiah Evans emerged as the star performer for Duke, delivering a stellar 21-point performance that included critical three-pointers in the second half. His sharp shooting proved instrumental in breaking SMU's momentum and extending Duke's lead at crucial junctures of the game, effectively turning the tide in favor of the Blue Devils.
Boozer and Ngongba's Dominant Contributions
Cameron Boozer played a pivotal role for Duke, contributing significantly with 18 points and seven rebounds, showcasing his all-around game. Complementing his effort, Patrick Ngongba II added an impressive 17 points, further bolstering Duke's offensive power and helping them recover from an initial double-digit deficit, demonstrating the team's depth and collective strength.
SMU's Valiant Effort Despite Key Absence
The SMU Mustangs, ranked 24th nationally, faced a formidable challenge without their leading scorer, Boopie Miller, who was sidelined due to illness. Despite this significant setback, the team displayed remarkable tenacity, with Jaden Toombs leading their scoring efforts with 23 points, 15 of which came in the first half, highlighting their determination in the face of adversity.
Turnovers Plague Mustangs, Duke Capitalizes
SMU's performance was hampered by a high number of turnovers, particularly in the first half, where they committed 14, leading to 16 points for Duke. This crucial aspect of the game underscored Duke's ability to capitalize on their opponent's mistakes, turning defensive pressure into offensive opportunities and establishing a significant lead before halftime.
First Half Momentum Swings and Duke's Tactical Adjustments
The game began with SMU taking an early substantial lead, going up by as much as 11-0 and 13-3. However, a prolonged scoring drought by the Mustangs shifted the momentum, allowing Duke to mount a comeback and build a 35-25 advantage. This period demonstrated Duke's strategic adjustments and ability to withstand early pressure, setting the stage for their eventual victory.