Sports
Duke Defeats Clemson in Thrilling Finish
Duke basketball secured a thrilling victory over Clemson in a tightly contested game at Wallace Wade Stadium. The Blue Devils displayed their resilience by pulling off a win in the final moments of the match, preserving their undefeated record at Cameron Indoor Stadium against the Tigers.
With a score of 72-71, Duke rallied in the closing minutes to claim victory. Jared McCain’s impressive steal and fast-break layup ignited the crowd, bringing the game to a nail-biting finish. With only 19.2 seconds remaining, Duke found themselves trailing by two points. In a crucial play, senior guard Jeremy Roach inbounded the ball, finding Kyle Filipowski who converted a layup, tying the game. Filipowski’s successful free throw secured the win, leaving Clemson with only 15 seconds to respond.
Throughout the game, Duke’s defensive efforts were on display, specifically against Clemson’s standout player, PJ Hall. The Blue Devils limited Hall’s impact, holding him to a mere 6 points and disrupting his usual dominance. However, as Filipowski dealt with foul trouble, Hall found his rhythm, scoring 13 out of his 19 points during this period.
The lead changed hands multiple times during an intense four-minute stretch in the second half. Tyrese Proctor played a pivotal role for Duke, contributing 18 points and displaying remarkable shooting accuracy. Proctor’s 4-for-6 performance from the arc proved crucial to the team’s success. Freshman standout Jared McCain also played a significant role, accumulating 21 points, including several key steals.
The raucous atmosphere at Cameron Indoor Stadium added to the excitement of the game, with the Cameron Crazies providing unwavering support for the home team. Duke’s victory showcased their ability to persevere despite injuries and showcased their resilience in the face of adversity.
This victory reinforces Duke’s standing as a top-ranked team in the ACC, further solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.