Former Duke Teammates Battle for NBA Rookie of the Year in Tight Race Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, once inseparable teammates on the Duke Blue Devils, are now locked in a fierce competition for the 2026 NBA Rookie of the Year award. The race, which has remained unpredictable throughout the season, is now entering its final stretch, with neither player holding a definitive edge. Their contrasting styles and paths have created a compelling narrative, as their shared history as teammates adds an extra layer of intrigue to the award race. Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has been a standout performer for the Dallas Mavericks. His season has been defined by explosive individual moments, including a historic 51-point game against the Utah Jazz, where he poured in 24 points in the fourth quarter to take control of the game. This performance, which made him the youngest player in NBA history to score 50 points, has cemented his reputation as a rare talent capable of delivering game-changing performances. Flagg’s resume includes multiple 40-point games, a 49-point outing earlier this season, and a consistent role as the Mavericks’ primary offensive weapon. However, his impact has been tempered by the team’s inconsistent results, with Dallas failing to convert his stellar performances into wins. Knueppel, meanwhile, has built his case on consistency and efficiency. Playing for the Charlotte Hornets, he has averaged nearly 19 points per game while shooting over 43% from three-point range. His season has been marked by a steady accumulation of milestones, including becoming the fastest player in NBA history to reach multiple three-point milestones and setting a rookie record for most three-pointers in a season.#duke_blue_devils #dallas_mavericks #cooper_flagg #kon_knueppel #nba_rookie_of_the_year
Injured Duke guard Caleb Foster could return for the Sweet 16 matchup against St. John’s, his family confirmed to WRAL. The No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils, who have been without Foster since his right foot fracture in the regular-season finale on March 17, may field a full roster for the game on Friday. Foster’s family told WRAL’s Chris Lea that the junior guard has a 50-50 chance of playing, though the decision will depend on his condition closer to game time. Duke practiced in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, and Foster was observed without apparent limitations during the media session. He wore a compression sleeve on his right leg, though no restrictions were noted. Coach Jon Scheyer emphasized Foster’s determination, recalling how the player vowed to return to the team after his injury. “He told me, ‘If I do this and work every day, you’ve got to promise me you'll let me put this uniform on again with our guys,’” Scheyer said. The coach added that Foster’s participation will be a game-time decision, as the team will assess his readiness in the hours leading up to the game. Foster, who underwent surgery on March 8, was initially expected to miss the Final Four. However, his progress has accelerated, with Scheyer noting he had a “good day of practice” on Wednesday. The coach cautioned that the team must prioritize his health, stating, “We have to make sure he's in position before the game. He's going to give it everything he has to go.” Foster’s absence has been mitigated by freshman Cayden Boozer, who has stepped into his role. Boozer has averaged 16.4 points in the past five games, including a career-high 19 points in Duke’s NCAA Tournament opener against Siena. Meanwhile, center Patrick Ngongba, who missed five games due to right foot soreness, returned in the second round and is expected to play against St.#jon_scheyer #duke_blue_devils #caleb_foster #cayden_boozers #st_john_s
Denver Lacrosse Faces Top-10 Duke in Key Matchup The Denver Pioneers are set to take on Duke, a top-10 ranked team, in their fourth matchup against a nationally ranked opponent this season. The game, scheduled for Sunday, March 19, 2026, marks a significant test for the Pioneers as they travel to the East Coast to face the Blue Devils. The contest will be held at Duke’s home venue, adding pressure for Denver to secure a strong performance against a formidable rival. This game represents a pivotal moment in the Pioneers’ season, as they continue to build momentum against high-level competition. Denver’s recent success against ranked teams has positioned them as a rising force in collegiate lacrosse, and facing Duke—a team with a storied history and strong defensive reputation—will provide valuable experience. The Pioneers’ ability to adapt to different playing styles and maintain composure under pressure will be critical factors in determining the outcome. The matchup also highlights the competitive nature of the sport, with both teams vying for national recognition and playoff positioning. Denver’s coach has emphasized the importance of preparation and mental toughness, noting that the team must remain focused on executing their game plan without overcomplicating their approach. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Pioneers respond to the challenge of facing a top-tier opponent on their home turf. This game is expected to draw significant attention from sports media and fans, further underscoring the growing popularity of men’s lacrosse at the collegiate level. As the Pioneers prepare for the matchup, the focus remains on delivering a strong performance and continuing their upward trajectory in the season.#duke_blue_devils #denver_pioneers #march_19_2026 #collegiate_lacrosse #east_coast
Duke star Cameron Boozer's girlfriend is a cheerleader for an ACC rival As March Madness approaches, Cameron Boozer and the Duke Blue Devils are set to make their mark in the NCAA Tournament as the No. 1 seed. The team, led by Boozer, enters the men’s tournament as heavy favorites after securing a second consecutive ACC tournament title by defeating Virginia 74-70 in the final. Duke’s path includes matchups against UConn, Michigan State, Kansas, and St. John’s in the East region. Boozer’s standout performances have been a major storyline this season, earning him unanimous first-team All-American honors. His achievements follow in the footsteps of Cooper Flagg, who also received the same recognition before being selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. Boozer’s personal life has also drawn attention, particularly his relationship with Yva Lauren Cao, a cheerleader for the University of Miami. Cao, who is dating Boozer since 2023 after meeting in high school, represents an ACC rival team, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their relationship. Cao has made a name for herself in her sport, earning First Team-All Dade honors from the Miami Herald, which recognizes the top cheerleaders in Miami-Dade County. She frequently shares her support for Boozer on social media, including attending his ACC Player of the Year ceremony after their tournament win over Virginia. Boozer has expressed his admiration for Cao’s posts, calling them “a good day” on his own social media. The duo’s connection has been a highlight of the season, with Boozer’s focus on team success and winning culture resonating with his coach, Jon Scheyer. Scheyer praised Boozer’s “contagious work ethic” and emphasized his commitment to the team over individual stats. “He’s all about his teammates,” Scheyer said via ESPN.#duke_blue_devils #acc #university_of_miami #cameron_boozer #yva_lauren_cao
Duke’s Cameron and Cayden Boozer Reflect on Final Team Season Together Carlos Boozer, a former NBA All-Star and Duke graduate, has made it a priority to attend nearly every game this season to witness his twin sons’ final chapter as teammates. The former Blue Devils star, now a proud father, is acutely aware that this may be the last time Cameron and Cayden play together on the court. With Cameron preparing for the NBA draft and Cayden likely returning to school, Carlos and his wife, CeCe, are cherishing every moment of their sons’ shared journey. “I ain’t missing no games,” Carlos told Andscape. “I told CeCe this could be the last time our boys play together. Cam is coming into the draft, and Cayden’s most likely going back to school. Even if Cayden does go pro, who knows how the NBA will play out if they ever play together again? That’s why I’m not missing any games. We’re not taking it for granted, and they’re not either.” Cameron Boozer, a freshman for Duke, has been a standout performer this season. Averaging 22.5 points on 56.5% shooting and 10.2 rebounds per game, he has led Duke to a 32-2 record, an ACC regular-season and tournament title, and a No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. His career-high 35-point performance against Arkansas and his dominance in key matchups, including a 29-point game against Florida’s top frontcourt, have solidified his reputation as one of the nation’s top prospects. Coach Jon Scheyer praised Cameron’s maturity and leadership, calling him “a special guy” who has been “incredible for us.” Carlos, reflecting on his son’s achievements, believes Cameron may be the best freshman to ever wear a Duke jersey. “Cam has had one of the best seasons of any college basketball player,” he said.#duke_blue_devils #ncaa_tournament #cayden_boozers #cameron_boozers #carlos_boozers
Duke vs. TCU odds, March Madness predictions: 2026 NCAA Tournament picks from proven model The ninth-seeded Texas Christian Horned Frogs will face the top-seeded Duke Blue Devils in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament East Region on Saturday. TCU secured its spot with a 66-64 victory over eighth-seeded Ohio State on Thursday, while Duke advanced after a 71-65 win against 16th-seeded Siena. The Horned Frogs, who finished sixth in the Big 12 with a 11-7 record, have won seven of their last eight games. Duke, the ACC regular season champion with a 17-1 record, has now won 12 consecutive games. Duke is missing starting forward Caleb Foster due to a foot injury, and center Patrick Ngongba is listed as questionable. The game will take place at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina, with a tipoff time of 5:15 p.m. ET. Duke is currently listed as an 11.5-point favorite in the latest odds, while the total points scored are projected to be 140.5. SportsLine’s Projection Model, which has a strong track record of accurate college basketball predictions, has simulated the matchup 10,000 times and released its findings. The model’s analysis suggests the Over on the total points is the most likely outcome, as the Over has hit in two of the last three TCU games and six of the last 10 Duke games. TCU is 8-2 against the spread in its last 10 contests, while Duke is 6-4 ATS in the same span. The model projects TCU to have two players scoring 11 or more points, with David Punch expected to contribute 11.9 points. Duke is projected to have three players scoring 11.4 points or more, led by Cameron Boozer, who is predicted to score 25 points. The model’s total combined score for the game is 148 points.#duke_blue_devils #tcu_horned_frogs #sportsline #bon_secours_wellness_arena #greenville_south_carolina
Men's March Madness 2026: Ranking the remaining 32 teams The NCAA tournament’s round of 32 has set the stage for a mix of powerhouses and underdogs, with teams navigating a complex landscape of injuries, matchups, and momentum. The first round saw top seeds dominate, but the second round promises unpredictability as key players’ availability remains uncertain. With the tournament’s bracket shaping up, here’s a breakdown of the remaining teams based on their performance and potential. Arizona Wildcats (No. 1, West) The Wildcats entered the tournament as a dominant force, showcasing their balanced attack in a 92-58 win over Long Island. Despite Jaden Bradley’s quiet game with just seven points, the team’s depth shone through, with Brayden Burries and Koa Peat each scoring 18 and 15 points respectively. Arizona’s 39% shooting from beyond the arc during their 10-game winning streak highlights their offensive versatility. Their next challenge will be against Utah State, a matchup that could test their ability to sustain high-level play. Duke Blue Devils (No. 1, East) Duke’s first-round victory over Siena was marred by injuries, as Patrick Ngongba II’s absence left the team struggling to contain the 16-seed. Despite trailing by double digits at halftime, Cameron Boozer led the charge with 13-of-14 free throws and a stifling defense that held Siena to 8-of-34 shooting in the second half. The Blue Devils’ elite defense, which ranked second in adjusted efficiency, remains a key asset, though their path to the Final Four will depend on the return of Ngongba and the performance of their depth. Florida Gators (No. 1, South) Florida’s 114-55 dismantling of Prairie View A&M underscored their dominance, with a 39-point halftime lead tying for the second-largest in tournament history.#duke_blue_devils #michigan_wolverines #florida_gators #arizona_wildcats #men_s_march_madness_2026
Duke’s Isaiah Evans Highlights Harassment Concerns From College Player Props Duke Blue Devils sophomore guard Isaiah Evans, who recently helped the team secure a victory in the ACC Tournament, has raised concerns about the growing impact of sports betting on college athletes. Evans specifically highlighted an increase in harassment linked to player prop bets, noting that athletes are receiving hostile messages from bettors. In some cases, these interactions have escalated to threats, prompting broader discussions about the role of prop betting in college sports. College athletes face unique risks when it comes to harassment tied to sports betting, largely due to their age and the environment they operate in. Many are still teenagers or in their early 20s, balancing academic responsibilities with athletic commitments while navigating emotional and mental development. This makes hostile messages and threats more challenging to process. Additionally, these athletes have limited access to media training, security resources, and support systems compared to professional players, leaving them more exposed to potential harm. The NCAA has responded to these concerns by launching its “Draw the Line” campaign, which aims to address abuse related to sports betting. The initiative focuses on educating fans about the consequences of their behavior and encouraging accountability when interacting with student-athletes online. It also provides resources to help athletes report harassment and take steps to protect themselves. The campaign’s goal is to shield athletes like Evans from the negative effects of angry bettors. The issues raised by Evans have intensified calls for a ban on player prop betting in college sports.#college_sports #ncaa #duke_blue_devils #isaias_evans #draw_the_line
Duke And Siena Set For NCAA Tournament Clash In Greenville Duke will face the Siena Saints in the NCAA tournament on Thursday, marking the Blue Devils’ first game of the postseason. The matchup pits a heavily favored Duke team against a Siena squad that has shown significant improvement this season. Siena, coached by former Syracuse star Gerry McNamara, finished third in the MAAC with a 23-11 record and won its conference tournament, a marked contrast to their 14-18 campaign last year. Siena’s roster features a deep rotation with several key contributors. Gavin Doty, a 6-5 sophomore, leads the team with 17.9 points per game and 7 rebounds, while senior Justice Shoats averages 13.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 1.4 steals. Brendan Coyle, a 6-7 senior, excels as a rebounder with 10.3 boards per game, and freshman Francis Folefac, a 6-7/245 lb. forward, provides inside presence. Tasman Goodrick, a 6-10/230 lb. junior from Australia, adds versatility to the rotation. The Saints’ offensive approach is distinct, relying heavily on mid-range shooting rather than three-pointers. They score just 22% of their points from beyond the arc, ranking 357th nationally in three-point percentage. Their pace is among the slowest in the country, with Siena averaging just 67.7 points per game allowed defensively. The team’s man-to-man defense has been effective, holding opponents to 47.9% shooting at the rim in their last 10 games. Siena’s strategy includes pairing Folefac with senior guard Riley Mulvey, a 7-0/240 lb. player, to create a formidable inside presence. However, their slow tempo could be a liability against Duke’s fast-paced style. The Blue Devils, known for their ability to stretch the shot clock, may exploit Siena’s methodical approach.#duke_blue_devils #siena_saints #gerry_mcnamara #gavin_doty #justice_shoats
Caleb Foster injury update: Duke G out for a 'foreseeable time' Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball will be without junior guard Caleb Foster for an unspecified period following a right foot fracture sustained during a game against North Carolina. Coach Jon Scheyer confirmed the injury during a media session on March 10, revealing that Foster underwent surgery the day after the incident and is now beginning his rehabilitation. Scheyer emphasized that Foster’s absence will last “a foreseeable time,” though the team remains focused on advancing in the upcoming ACC Tournament and NCAA Tournament. The injury occurred in the first half of Duke’s 76-61 victory over North Carolina on March 7. Foster lunged toward a basket after a made shot by the Tar Heels and immediately collapsed in pain, grimacing on the court. He was treated on the bench before limping to the locker room with a trainer. During the second half, he sat in street clothes and a walking boot, using a knee rover to move around the arena. Scheyer described the incident as an “awkward play,” noting that Foster had felt no discomfort prior to the injury. “It just happened out of nowhere,” Scheyer said. “Some things you feel are preventable, and other times, freak things happen. This is one of them.” Foster’s injury adds to a history of setbacks for the player. He missed the final nine games of his freshman season due to an ankle fracture. Scheyer provided a potential timeline for Foster’s return, linking it to Duke’s success in the NCAA Tournament. “The reality is we’d have to advance to a Final Four,” Scheyer said. “Is there a chance earlier? I’m not going to eliminate that, but it’s really difficult to imagine that scenario. We won’t have him for the next few weeks.#north_carolina #jon_scheyer #acc_tournament #duke_blue_devils #caleb_foster
No. 13 Duke rallies past No. 12 Louisville 70-65 in overtime to win women's ACC Tournament No. 13 Duke Blue Devils secured their second consecutive women’s Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament title with a 70-65 overtime victory over No. 12 Louisville Cardinals on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The game, played in the Ally ACC Tournament final, saw Taina Mair lead the way with 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Delaney Thomas added 19 points to propel Duke to the win. The Blue Devils trailed for much of the contest but mounted a late rally in the fourth quarter, forcing overtime. Louisville, led by Imari Berry’s 18 points, held a narrow lead entering the extra period. In the overtime frame, Duke’s relentless offensive pressure and clutch free-throw shooting proved decisive. Mair’s 25-foot three-point jumper with 2:10 remaining in the extra session gave Duke the lead, and the team held off Louisville’s final attempts to secure the victory. Key moments in the game included a pivotal three-point play by Riley Nelson, who connected on a 23-foot jumper with an assist from Ashlon Jackson, and a crucial free-throw sequence by Taina Mair, who converted both shots to extend Duke’s lead. Louisville’s Tajianna Roberts and Laura Ziegler also contributed with key three-pointers, but Duke’s balanced scoring and defensive adjustments in the final minutes sealed the win. The Blue Devils’ ability to maintain composure in high-pressure moments highlighted their championship pedigree, while Louisville’s resilience in the overtime period underscored the competitive nature of the ACC Tournament. Duke’s victory marks another milestone in the program’s resurgence under head coach Joanne Pickett, who now guides the team to back-to-back titles.#duke_blue_devils #louisville_cardinals #taina_mair #delaney_thomas #joanne_pickett
Notre Dame Faces Duke in ACC Women’s Semifinal The Notre Dame women’s basketball team is in a strong position as it prepares to face the No. 13 Duke Blue Devils in the ACC Tournament semifinals. The Irish have won their last seven games, showcasing a resurgence after a challenging stretch earlier in the season. Their performance has positioned them as a contender for a higher seed in the NCAA Tournament, with hopes of advancing to the championship game. The matchup against Duke presents a significant challenge, particularly with the Blue Devils’ forward Toby Fournier expected to test Notre Dame’s frontcourt defense. The game promises to be competitive, with both teams bringing strong energy and skill to the court. Live updates and highlights will provide ongoing coverage of the action as the Irish aim to continue their momentum. The first quarter saw Duke taking an early lead, scoring the first six points of the game. Notre Dame struggled initially, with Hannah Hidalgo missing her first two shots at the rim. Duke’s early dominance was compounded by Notre Dame’s turnovers, which reached five by the end of the first quarter. However, the Irish showed signs of improvement as they went on a 7-0 run toward the end of the first quarter, indicating a potential shift in their performance. By the end of the second quarter, Notre Dame had managed to cut into Duke’s lead, with a 15-17 scoreline. The Irish’s defensive aggression increased, leading to nine turnovers for Duke. Despite efforts to close the gap, Duke extended their lead to double digits by halftime. Key moments included Hannah Hidalgo’s layup and a defensive play by Prosper that nearly disrupted Duke’s momentum. However, Duke capitalized on their opportunities, including a three-point play that solidified their advantage.#duke_blue_devils #hannah_hidalgo #notre_dame #toby_fournier #prosper
Irish Take Win Streak Into ACC Semis Versus Duke DULUTH, Ga. — The No. 5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish, riding a seven-game winning streak, will face No. 1 Duke in the ACC Tournament semifinals on Saturday, March 7, with a chance to advance to the title game. The matchup, set for noon ET at the Gas South Arena in Duluth, Ga., will be broadcast on ESPN2 with Beth Mowins and Debbie Antonelli calling the action. Notre Dame secured its place in the semifinals by defeating NC State in the quarterfinals on Friday, 81-63. The Irish dominated the Wolfpack, with Hannah Hidalgo and Iyana Moore combining for 45 points. Moore added nine rebounds, tying her career-high in rebounds, while Hidalgo recorded her sixth consecutive game with 25 or more points, the most among ACC players this century. The junior forward also matched her career high with 20 points in the tournament game, marking her sixth ACC Tournament contest with double-digit scoring, tied for the most by any player in the league’s history. Moore’s performance was highlighted by her four three-pointers against NC State, her 10th game this season with four or more three-pointers. Cassandre Prosper, named ACC’s Most Improved Player, contributed 13 points in the win, extending her streak of 24 games with 10 or more points. Notre Dame’s victory over NC State also marked its fourth consecutive win against the Wolfpack in the ACC Tournament, maintaining a perfect 4-0 record in such matchups. The Irish’s matchup against Duke carries historical significance, as Notre Dame is 19-6 all-time against the Blue Devils, including a 4-1 record in ACC Tournament play. The teams have met in the tournament before, with Notre Dame’s recent success adding momentum to its pursuit of the title.#acc_tournament #notre_dame_fighting_irish #duke_blue_devils #gas_south_arena #hannah_hidalgo
