When Duke’s men’s basketball team faced N.C. State on Monday night, Cameron Indoor Stadium was a hive of activity as they looked to extend their winning streak to 14 games.
However, the Blue Devils were in uncharted territory after 20 minutes of play, falling behind the Wolfpack 37-33. The Offense Stymies of Wolfpack Duke’s Protection After trying a zone against Wake Forest, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer went back to the team’s tried-and-true man-to-man defense, but N.C. State was ready.
Duke was punished by the Wolfpack’s clinical offensive play, which included contested jumpers and accurate long-range shooting.
Unlike many of Duke’s opponents this season, N.C. State started the game with a fast start from beyond the arc, making five of seven three-pointers.
The Wolfpack’s offensive rhythm was highlighted by their 23–12 advantage halfway through the half. They ended the half shooting 48.4% from the field and 58.3% from three.
Turnovers Still Worry Duke Duke’s turnover problems from their last game against Wake Forest continued into this one, and careless play helped N.C. State establish an early lead.
Freshman Cooper Flagg and junior guard Tyrese Proctor had difficult shooting performances. Flagg scored just five points on 2-of-7 shooting, while Proctor struggled, making only one of his six shots. For Proctor, it echoed his tough game against Wake Forest, but Blue Devil fans will hope for another strong finish from the talented guard.
Mid-Half Rally Sparks Hope
Down 23-12 with momentum fully on N.C. State’s side, Scheyer called a timeout to regroup his team. The change quickly paid off. Sion James sparked the Blue Devils with two back-to-back steals, leading to a three-pointer by Knueppel and a powerful dunk by James that energized the Cameron Crazies.
Though Duke fought to close the gap, N.C. State’s senior guard Dontrez Styles was relentless, hitting three three-pointers and scoring 13 first-half points. Senior Michael O’Connell also contributed nine points, keeping the Wolfpack in control as Duke pushed back.
Player of the Half: Kon Knueppel
Freshman Kon Knueppel was one of the few bright spots for Duke in the first half. The Milwaukee native showed off his sharp shooting, hitting three crucial three-pointers to help the Blue Devils close the gap. Knueppel’s 11 points and five rebounds were key, with his offensive rebounds providing valuable second-chance opportunities for a struggling Duke offense.
Second-Half Preview
The Blue Devils have work ahead in the second half, especially on defense. They must adjust to N.C. State’s three-point shooting and cut down on turnovers while improving their shooting efficiency.
Duke fans will be looking to stars like Proctor and Flagg to rise to the occasion. Scheyer’s adjustments at halftime will also be crucial as the Blue Devils try to mount a comeback and extend their win streak.
With 20 minutes remaining, the game is still up for grabs at Cameron Indoor. Can Duke step up when it counts? Stay tuned.
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