Opinion
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Duke Blue Devils Set to Battle North Carolina Tar Heels at Dean Smith Center

As the Duke Blue Devils prepare to face off against the North Carolina Tar Heels at the Dean Smith Center, fans are eager for what promises to be a riveting showdown. The storied rivalry adds another chapter, and this time, it's not just about bragging rights but also about maintaining momentum.


Mar 4, 2023; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA;  Duke Blue Devils guard Jeremy Roach (3) shoots as North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot (5) and guard Caleb Love (2) and forward Puff Johnson (14) defend in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Blue Devils have been on an impressive run lately. In their last game on December 21st against Baylor Bears at Madison Square Garden, they emerged victorious with a score of 78-70. Their performance was marked by a solid field goal percentage of 49 and an even more impressive free throw percentage of 83. With eight steals and a higher assists turnover ratio than Baylor (1.75 compared to 0.77), DUKE showcased their ability to maintain possession and capitalize on opportunities.


Earlier in December, specifically on the 13th, DUKE hosted Hofstra Pride at Cameron Indoor Stadium and put up an offensive clinic with an astounding scoreline of 89-68 in favor of the home team. Their field goal percentage stood at a remarkable 55 percent while they drained half their three-point attempts – showcasing lethal efficiency from beyond the arc.


Mar 4, 2023; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA;  North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot (5) and Duke Blue Devils center Ryan Young (15) fight for the ball in the first half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Against Charlotte 49ers on December 9th, again playing host, Duke didn't disappoint their fans as they cruised to an easy win with an ending scoreline of 80-56. They maintained a consistent shooting performance with a field goal percentage rounding off at 50 percent while impressively converting over half their three-point shots.


On the other hand, UNC cannot be underestimated as they come into this game looking to upset DUKE's rhythm. The Tar Heels will rely heavily on their home-court advantage and passionate fan base in Chapel Hill to disrupt Duke's flow.


Mar 4, 2023; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot (5) shoots as Duke Blue Devils forward Mark Mitchell (25) defends in the second half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

However, given recent performances and statistics from past games – particularly Duke’s ability to efficiently convert possessions into points – it seems likely that DUKE will carry forward its momentum into this upcoming clash against UNC.


Fans should expect DUKE’s offense to continue its high-octane performance with sharpshooting from downtown complemented by disciplined defense that has been pivotal in recent victories.


The highly anticipated matchup is scheduled for February 3rd at Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill; tip-off is set for approximately half-past six PM Eastern Time (6:30 PM ET). For those unable or unwilling to brave what promises to be a raucous environment live can catch all the action nationally broadcasted on ESPN channel number two hundred six (206).

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