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It’s only October, but Duke basketball already looks like a team built for March. And after the Blue Devils’ gritty 83–76 win over Tennessee, one thing became crystal clear — this team has a star who’s changing everything.
What happened in Knoxville wasn’t just another preseason win. It was a showcase. From start to finish, Duke’s star forward dominated every inch of the floor, putting up a stat line that left fans and analysts stunned: 24 points, 23 rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and a steal. The numbers were so wild that social media immediately exploded with reactions — some calling it “a video game performance,” others saying, “He looks like an NBA player trapped in a college uniform.”
A Star Taking Over Early
Through just two exhibition games, the Duke standout has proven he’s not just talented — he’s built differently. Against UCF, he opened his college career with 33 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists on 63% shooting, setting an early tone for what might be one of the most dominant freshman seasons in recent memory.
Now, against Tennessee, he followed it up with another monster performance that left no room for doubt. His impact went beyond scoring — the leadership, passing, and control of tempo were something usually seen from upperclassmen.
Jon Scheyer’s offense ran smoothly through him, and every possession felt deliberate. When Duke needed a bucket, he delivered. When they needed a stop, he was there. And when momentum started to swing, he was the one steadying the team.
Duke’s Depth and Shooting Are No Joke
The Blue Devils shot 10-of-27 from three-point range (37%), maintaining the same confidence they displayed in their previous outing against UCF (12-of-35). Scheyer’s squad is clearly emphasizing spacing and ball movement — and when shots are falling, this team becomes incredibly hard to guard.
The balance was also on display. While the team’s young star commanded attention, several role players stepped up to make key plays in the second half, helping Duke erase a six-point halftime deficit. The Blue Devils were perfect from the free-throw line after the break, showcasing discipline and poise that championship teams thrive on.
Key Absences and Returns
Veteran big man Maliq Brown remained sidelined as he continues recovering from a knee injury, but there was good news — freshman Dame Sarr made his debut after missing the first game. The Italian guard brought energy off the bench, contributing five points, two assists, and a steal, and showing flashes of what could make him another vital piece for Duke’s rotation.
The Message Is Loud and Clear
After two games, Duke is 2–0 in exhibition play — but it’s the way they’re winning that’s turning heads. The Blue Devils aren’t just talented; they’re tough, unselfish, and already showing midseason chemistry.
Fans are all saying the same thing: this Duke team feels special. There’s a quiet confidence about them — the kind that great teams have before the rest of the country catches on.
Jon Scheyer’s group might have the most balanced and explosive roster in college basketball this season, and at the center of it all is a player who’s already looking like the next face of Duke basketball.
If these early performances are any indication, this isn’t just hype — this is the beginning of something big in Durham.
