Duke Tops College Basketball Power Rankings Ahead of Rivalry Showdown

DURHAM, N.C. — The Duke Blue Devils have solidified their position as the nation’s hottest college basketball team, retaining the No. 1 spot in the CBS Sports power rankings for the second consecutive week. With a 14-game winning streak, Duke heads into Saturday’s highly anticipated rivalry game against North Carolina with momentum on its side.

Duke, now 18-2 overall and 10-0 in ACC play, has been led by standout performances from its freshman trio, including Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach. In their latest victory, the Blue Devils defeated a tough opponent 74-64, with Knueppel and Maluach combining for 47 points and 13 rebounds. The team hasn’t lost since November 26, when it fell to Kansas.

“The vibes are immaculate around Duke right now,” said CBS Sports analyst Gary Parrish. “Even if they don’t have the same number of Quad 1 wins as Auburn, this team is playing at a high level and improving with each game.”

Auburn, the AP-ranked No. 1 team, remains close behind Duke at No. 2 in the power rankings. The Tigers, whose only loss this season came against Duke, are riding a 12-game winning streak after victories over Tennessee and LSU. Parrish noted that Auburn’s strong résumé makes a compelling case for the top spot, but Duke’s current form gives it the edge.

Elsewhere in the rankings, Houston climbed to No. 3 after a thrilling double-overtime win at Allen Fieldhouse and a midweek victory. Michigan State, undefeated in Big Ten play, sits at No. 4, while Florida rounds out the top five with an impressive 89-59 win over a conference rival.

The weekend’s slate of games promises high stakes, particularly for Duke and North Carolina. The Blue Devils’ freshman phenoms will face their toughest test yet in a rivalry that has defined college basketball for decades. “This is what college basketball is all about,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “We’re excited for the challenge and ready to compete.”

As the season progresses, the power rankings will continue to shift, but for now, Duke reigns supreme. The Blue Devils’ combination of talent, momentum, and confidence makes them the team to beat as March Madness looms on the horizon.