Duke Dominates Baylor to Advance to Sweet 16

RALEIGH, N.C. — Duke University’s basketball team secured a decisive 89-66 victory over Baylor in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on March 23, 2025, to advance to the Sweet 16.

The Blue Devils, the top seed in the East Region, showcased their scoring prowess, led by Tyrese Proctor, who recorded a career-high 25 points and made seven 3-pointers. Duke’s effective shooting helped them dominate the court and maintain a comfortable lead throughout the game.

Head coach Jon Scheyer praised his team’s performance, stating, “We came out with the right intensity from the start and executed our game plan perfectly. Our defense was solid, and we created open shots for Tyrese and the rest of the guys.”

Duke entered halftime with a significant 47-30 advantage. They closed the first half on a 24-6 run, leading to a commanding position heading into the second half. The Blue Devils shot 64% from the floor and made 15 3-pointers, showcasing their offensive depth.

On the court, Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel also contributed significantly, with Flagg adding 18 points and Knueppel scoring 12, including crucial baskets to extend the lead in the second half. The Blue Devils’ offense was relentless, with multiple players stepping up at key moments.

Baylor, seeded ninth in the regional bracket, attempted to rally but struggled to match Duke’s pace. Jeremy Roach, a former Blue Devil who now plays for Baylor, had 14 points but couldn’t shift the momentum for his team. Coach Scott Drew noted, “Duke played a great game. We had our moments, but they executed better consistently.”

The Blue Devils will face the winner of the matchup between Oregon and Arizona in the Sweet 16. Proctor’s recent performance has built anticipation for Duke’s chances as they aim for another championship run.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Duke and their impressive display of skill and teamwork, with potential for even more thrilling performances in upcoming rounds.