Will Duke Rise Above Georgia Tech's Challenge in Atlanta?
Next up for the Duke Blue Devils is a trip to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech, a matchup that brings memories of last year’s intense clash. It was in the same setting where Georgia Tech pulled off a surprise 72-68 victory, aided by an explosive start and a resilient effort. That game saw Tyrese Proctor sidelined early with an injury, which hampered Duke’s chances. However, this year’s Duke squad comes in with a retooled roster and a determination to rewrite history.
Duke’s roster transformation has been impressive. With a towering lineup featuring defensive stalwarts, they aim to neutralize Georgia Tech’s offensive threats. Georgia Tech, on the other hand, has experienced significant roster changes, losing key players like Kyle Sturdivant and Miles Kelly, among others. Still, their current lineup, led by Lance Terry (averaging 15.5 points), Baye Ndongo (12.9 points, 7.7 rebounds), and Naithan George (11 points, 6 assists), is capable of challenging any opponent on a good day.
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Baye Ndongo, in particular, stands out as a potent inside player, and his athleticism makes him a difficult matchup. Duke may look to Maliq Brown to contain him with smart, calculated defense. Meanwhile, Georgia Tech’s shooting has been inconsistent, hitting 43.1% from the field and 32.6% from beyond the arc, which could be a critical weakness against Duke’s suffocating defense.
Duke’s own backcourt, featuring Proctor, Sion Love, and Caleb Foster, forms an interchangeable and relentless defensive trio. Complementing them is the versatility of Cooper Flagg, who is proving to be a force on both ends of the court. Add to that Khaman Maluach, a 7’2” freshman whose defensive impact is only beginning to emerge, and Duke’s defensive front becomes even more formidable.
Georgia Tech’s game plan will likely involve relying on perimeter shooting to counter Duke’s size and interior defense. However, with Isaiah Evans emerging as a sharpshooter off the bench for Duke, the Blue Devils have a quick-strike option to turn the tide if needed. Head coach Jon Scheyer will need to counter Damon Stoudamire’s strategic adjustments, which may draw on his coaching pedigree under basketball greats like Brad Stevens.
As the game unfolds, expect Duke to leverage its talent and depth to weather any early Georgia Tech surges, which could be buoyed by the home crowd. While Georgia Tech has the potential to make it a competitive matchup, Duke’s superior roster and defensive prowess make them the favorites.
All eyes will be on Atlanta to see if Duke can avoid last year’s pitfalls and continue their march through the ACC. One thing is certain: this will be a battle worth watching.
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