Jeremy Roach Prepares for NCAA Rematch Against Former Team Duke

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Jeremy Roach could hardly contain his excitement as the NCAA Tournament bracket was revealed. The Baylor guard, a former Duke player, is set for a potential second-round clash with his old team this Sunday.

The ninth-seeded Bears will face Mississippi State on Friday. If Baylor wins, they are likely to meet the top-seeded Blue Devils, who need to advance past Mount St. Mary’s.

“The committee always likes to bring a story into it,” Roach said, reflecting on his unique position heading into the tournament.

Roach spent four successful seasons at Duke, contributing to the team’s journey to the Final Four three years ago and the Elite Eight last season. Those experiences still resonate with him, especially a defeat that he finds particularly troubling.

Soon after that loss last year, Duke Coach Jon Scheyer opted to revamp his roster. Roach, contemplating a leap to the NBA, ultimately decided to transfer to Baylor, looking to make the most of his final year of eligibility.

“I felt it was time for a change,” said Roach, who averaged 14 points per game last season, shooting 43% from three-point range. “I’ve enjoyed playing for Baylor, but it has been a frustrating year with injuries. I’ve faced two concussions that sidelined me for seven games, and my numbers have dipped to 10.3 points per game and 35% from beyond the arc.”

Baylor, once projected as a national title contender, has struggled amid injury challenges, losing six of their last ten games. Roach remains hopeful despite the obstacles.

“It’s been an up and down season, but everyone is staying strong and connected,” he noted. “I think we are starting to come together. We’ve faced a lot of challenges, but I feel like we are playing our best basketball now.”

Head Coach Scott Drew acknowledged that Roach’s NCAA experience will be invaluable in March Madness. “You’ve got players who’ve won in March and know what’s at stake. Jeremy and Norchad Omier are both not scared of any moment and are a blessing to coach,” Drew said.

While Roach insists that his focus is solely on Mississippi State, the hype surrounding a possible matchup with Duke is palpable.

“I’m excited for that potential matchup, too,” he said, as the excitement builds leading into the tournament weekend.