The University of North Carolina (UNC) basketball team endured another difficult loss at the hands of their longtime rival, the Duke Blue
Devils, in a high-stakes ACC showdown at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill. This game marked an emotional moment for UNC’s star guard RJ Davis, who bid farewell to the home crowd in what was likely his final appearance on his home court.
Duke, ranked among the top teams in the nation, showcased its depth, talent, and execution down the stretch to secure the victory.
However, this contest bore little resemblance to Duke’s dominant win over the Tar Heels in Durham earlier in the season. In that previous matchup at Cameron Indoor Stadium, the Blue
Devils controlled the tempo from start to finish and could have widened the margin even further had they chosen to. UNC, by contrast, looked overmatched and struggled to compete. This time, the Tar Heels demonstrated marked improvement, forcing Duke into a much more competitive battle. While the Blue Devils ultimately emerged victorious, they were pushed to their limits before pulling away late in the game.
With this loss, North Carolina now finds itself in a precarious position regarding its NCAA Tournament hopes. Sitting on the bubble, the Tar Heels must capitalize on their opportunities in the upcoming ACC Tournament in Charlotte, where they need a strong showing to bolster their résumé and secure a spot in March Madness.
As the team shifts its focus to postseason play, it is essential to reflect on the key lessons learned from UNC’s hard-fought loss to Duke in Chapel Hill.
Cooper Flagg had 15 points , 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 blocks, despite being in foul trouble in the first half to help Duke defeat UNC 82-69 on Saturday night.
Duke 82, North Carolina 69 – Final Score
North Carolina
Record:20-12, 13-7 ACC
Scoring Breakdown
| Team | 1st Half | 2nd Half | Final |
|——–|———|———|——-|
| Duke| 43 | 39 | 82 |
| North Carolina| 42 | 27 | 69 |
Game Information
– Date:March 8, 2025
– Attendance:21,750
– Location:Dean Smith Center, Chapel Hill, NC
– Officials: John Gaffney, Lee Cassell, Rob
Duke defeats UNC and wins the ACC championship outright.
After thwarting North Carolina’s upset effort, Duke clinches the ACC title and claims the top rating.
The Tar Heels pushed the Blue Devils, but fell short in the Tobacco Road rivalry matchup.
With an 82-69 victory against rival North Carolina on Saturday, No. 2 Duke clinched the ACC title and the top seed in next week’s ACC Tournament. The win gave the Blue Devils a season sweep over the Tar Heels, and they might potentially pass Auburn for first place in next week’s rankings.
Duke’s win deprived North Carolina (20-12, 13-7) a much-needed Quad 1 victory, as the Tar Heels were among the “First Four Out” in Jerry Palm’s predicted NCAA Tournament bracket. With a record of 1-11 in Quad 1, the Tar Heels will most certainly approach the conference tournament with work to do in order to earn an at-large ticket to the Big Dance.
If Duke (28-3, 19-1) had lost, it would have split the regular-season crown with Clemson and Louisville and been seeded third in the ACC Tournament. For a moment, it looked the Blue Devils were in peril as the Tar Heels attempted to revenge their 87-70 loss to Duke on February 1.
North Carolina finished the first half on a 12-2 run, thanks to an offensive explosion by senior guard RJ Davis, then opened the second half on a 15-6 surge. The multi-half outburst helped UNC reverse a 15-point deficit into a seven-point advantage, with the score 56-49 with under 16 minutes remaining.
But Duke found its top gear from there, demonstrating the form that has made them the most dominating team in college basketball. Freshman guard Kon Knueppel led Duke with 17 points, while Tyrese Proctor scored 16.
Coop —> Rese pic.twitter.com/YDTeP1Dlpt
— Duke Men’s Basketball (@DukeMBB) March 9, 2025
Duke had challenges without its star player, Cooper Flagg, during crucial moments. The Blue Devils’ National Player of the Year contender withdrew after picking up his second foul with 12:53 left in the first half, Duke leading 17-12. With Flagg on the bench for more than 7 minutes, Duke increased their advantage to 39-28.
However, when he picked up his third with a charge at 3:18 and checked out again, the Tar Heels capitalized and finished the first half on a 10-2 run. Flagg had significant contributions, finishing with 15 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and four blocks. Perhaps his strongest attribute down the stretch was availability, as Flagg went the entire second half without picking up his fourth foul.
Rankings and Bracketology Implications
With Auburn (27-4, 15-3 SEC) losing its second game of the week to Alabama on Saturday and Duke (28-3, 19-1 ACC) winning its eighth straight, voters will face a difficult decision in Monday’s new polls. No. 3 Houston may possibly be able to get votes for No. 1 after winning the Big 12 championship outright.
When it comes to bracketology, Auburn will maintain the top overall seed in Jerry Palm’s predicted NCAA Tournament field. With a 15-4 record in Quad 1 games, the Tigers still have more than twice as many victories as Duke, which is at 7-3 in Quad 1. Because the ACC is having a low year, earning the conference’s outright title with a 19-1 record has only taken the Blue Devils thus far. However, Duke is still on course to be the No. 1 seed in the Big Dance.
Second-chance scores and fast-break scoring distinguish No. 2 Duke men’s basketball defeated Wake Forest.
When Duke left the court after facing Wake Forest at LJVM Coliseum in January, Blue Devil fans breathed a sigh of relief. Victory was anything but certain, as the Demon Deacons stormed out of the halftime break with intensity, building a lead of up to 14 points. Although Duke managed to grind out a win, one lingering question remained: How would the Blue Devils respond when Wake Forest came to Durham?
A little over a month later, on senior night at Cameron Indoor Stadium, Duke left no doubt. Dominating the Demon Deacons by 33 points, the team that took the floor looked completely transformed from the one that had struggled weeks earlier. So, what changed?
“These guys have been incredibly unselfish, incredibly driven, and it’s made … for a great collective toughness that we’ve had,” head coach Jon Scheyer said.
Toughness is hard to measure on a stat sheet, but Wake Forest head coach Steve Forbes put it plainly:
“Their points really came off turnovers, second-chance points, the fast breaks,” Forbes noted.
The shift began early, sparked by Cooper Flagg’s defensive effort just six minutes into the game. The freshman disrupted a pass to Tre’Von Spillers, deflecting the ball toward Kon Knueppel. The Milwaukee native sprinted down the court and dished it to graduate transfer Sion James, who knocked down a three-pointer.
From that moment forward, Duke’s transition game took over. The Blue Devils tallied 17 fast-break points to Wake Forest’s six, a stark contrast from their previous matchup, where they managed just two in comparison to the Demon Deacons’ 12. By playing at a faster pace and taking advantage of transition opportunities, Duke built a commanding lead.
Even when shots didn’t fall, Duke was relentless on the glass, securing 18 offensive rebounds that led to 22 second-chance points. Freshman center Khaman Maluach played a pivotal role, energizing the team with his dominance on the boards. In their January meeting, Duke had only five second-chance points, failing to maximize their offensive possessions. This time, they ensured no opportunity went to waste.
“I thought we just were able to come together,” graduate forward Mason Gillis said after the game. “Coach talked at halftime about showing our growth. I think we did [that].”
Beyond the hustle stats, it was Duke’s unselfishness that set them apart. The Blue Devils racked up 19 assists, keeping Wake Forest’s defense in constant motion and generating open looks. Flagg led the way with seven assists, helping Gillis and James hit key three-pointers in their final game at Cameron Indoor. This kind of ball movement was absent in their previous matchup.
“The biggest thing was the ball was moving this time,” James explained. “Last time we played … they stood us up and slowed our offense down, but today the ball was still popping all the way around.”
Several factors contributed to Duke’s dominant performance—Flagg’s brilliance, the energy of senior night, and the home-court advantage—but those won’t always be there in March. What will matter is the team’s resilience and ability to play together under pressure.
If the Blue Devils can maintain their fast pace, capitalize on turnovers, and convert second-chance opportunities, they could very well be on their way to San Antonio.
An update on Shelton Henderson, the Duke basketball commit
In Texas postseason play, the future forward for Duke is now displaying his competitiveness.
Shelton Henderson, a 2025 Duke basketball recruit, has led his Bellaire High School (Texas) Cardinals to a 24-10 overall record this season. As a prep, Henderson averaged over 20 points, seven rebounds, and two steals per game. Additionally, they are now preparing for the Texas 6A Regional Final.
The 6-foot-6, 225-pound Henderson scored 25 points in Tuesday’s semifinal victory over the Bulldogs of Summer Creek High School, which ended in a 75-66 victory.
On Friday night, he and the Cardinals take on the Seven Lakes High School Spartans (33-5). On the 247Sports 2025 Composite, Henderson is a five-star recruit who is presently ranked No. 2 in Texas, No. 4 among small forwards, and No. 24 overall.
When Shelton Henderson and the other three players from the Blue Devils’ top-ranked 2025 class were signed back in November, third-year Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer remarked, “Shelton has all the makings of a high-level player at Duke.” “Everything we look for is his athleticism, versatility as a defender, and intense competitiveness… I can’t wait to coach him since his game is just getting started.”
Jon Scheyer gives little explanation on Tyrese Proctor’s injuries, as he leaves on crutches
The Blue Devils did not have an update on the status of its starting point guard.
Tyrese Proctor suffered a knee injury late in the first half of Duke’s 97-60 victory over Miami on Tuesday night, casting a shadow over the game.
Proctor looked to take an odd step while attempting to defend a transition layup, and he staggered to the Blue Devil locker room for additional treatment.
He was called out of the game early in the second half after finishing with seven points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals, and Jon Scheyer did not offer much of an update following the game.
“We have to get him back, get x-rays and an MRI,” Scheyer stated. “He was struck in the leg. That is all I know, and we will get him examined and treated.”
Scheyer’s remark regarding Proctor’s injury was very similar to the tone he used about a week earlier when Maliq Brown had an injury late in the first half against Virginia that was subsequently determined to be a dislocated shoulder.
However, Proctor was observed exiting the arena and returning to the team bus on crutches following the game.
Last season, Proctor suffered a lower leg injury early in the first half against Georgia Tech, returning to the bench on crutches after missing nearly four weeks and three games.
Duke (25-3, 16-1 ACC) has only three games left in the regular season, two of which will be played in the span of three days on Saturday night (7:00 p.m. ET, ACC Network) against Florida State (16-12, 7-10 ACC) and Monday evening (7:00 p.m. ET, ESPN) against Wake Forest (19-8, 11-5 ACC).
Duke will play its last regular-season game on the road at North Carolina (18-11, 11-6 ACC) on March 8, with the ACC Tournament commencing on March 13.
Isaiah Evans, who finished with 16 points off the bench on 5-of-8 3-point shooting, started the second half in Tyrese Proctor’s place, but Caleb Foster, who has had his role significantly reduced over the past six weeks, scored in double digits again and played 18 minutes in the win.
Still, Duke sorely needs Tyrese Proctor’s seasoned leadership on the court to maintain its position as one of the big favorites to win the National Championship.
JUST IN: Illinois coach Brad Underwood send strong message to Duke star Cooper Flagg…
Duke Dominates Illinois, Solidifies National Title Contender Status
The No. 3 Duke Blue Devils reinforced their championship aspirations with a commanding 110-67 victory over the Illinois Fighting Illini on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden. The dominant performance in this high-profile late-season non-conference matchup captured the attention of college basketball fans across the country.
Illinois suffered its worst defeat in program history, a 43-point blowout that left head coach Brad Underwood in awe of Duke freshman Cooper Flagg. Flagg delivered an impressive stat line, recording 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists in just 23 minutes of action.
“I hope he stays in school,” Underwood said after the game, praising the young star. “If I’m the NCAA or the ACC, I’m finding an NIL deal to keep that guy in college because he represents everything good about our game. Someone mentioned it in a story, and I hope it happens. Honestly, he might earn more here than in the NBA. Plus, he’s got great people around him, which makes a difference.”
Underwood’s remarks highlight an ongoing debate in college basketball—whether top prospects like Flagg could benefit financially from staying in school due to lucrative NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. While Flagg may initially earn more through NIL opportunities than on an NBA rookie contract, there is little doubt that his long-term earnings will be significantly higher at the professional level.
Still, Underwood made a passionate case for Flagg to remain in the college game a little longer.
“He’s only 18,” Underwood continued. “Go have fun. Chase a girl. Just enjoy the experience. I get it—his future is set. He’s going to be great. I don’t know him or his family personally, but, man, I love college basketball.”
With the win, Duke improved to 24-3 overall and 15-1 in ACC play. As the NCAA Tournament approaches, the Blue Devils are firmly in the conversation for the top overall seed, positioning themselves as a legitimate title contender.
Duke is scariest team in men’s college basketball after another blowout win
Duke is scariest team in men’s college basketball after another blowout win
Duke laid waste to another ACC foe on Monday, looking like a major threat to win a national title with the NCAA Tournament only weeks away.
The Blue Devils vanquished Wake Forest, 93-60, for their fifth win by at least 30 points this season, tying this year’s squad with the 2019-20 Blue Devils for the most 30-point wins in a single season in program history. (h/t Stathead).
Three of those wins have come in the past seven days, including a 97-60 win over Miami on Feb. 25, followed by a 100-65 win on Saturday against Florida State.
Duke also routed Illinois (19-11, 11-8 in Big Ten) in an out-of-conference game on Feb. 22, winning 110-67. Since a six-point loss to Clemson on Feb. 8, the Blue Devils have won seven in a row by an average of 31.9 points per game.
They look like the most dangerous team in the country, even scarier than Associated Press No. 1 Auburn (27-2, 15-1 in SEC) or the rest of the SEC’s elite.
While Duke has certainly benefited from playing in an ACC that’s at its weakest in recent history, its recent win against Illinois suggests it hasn’t simply benefited from playing inferior competition.
No. 2 Duke (27-3, 18-1 in ACC) has one of the nation’s top offenses, averaging 83.5 points per game following Monday’s decisive victory.
Per KenPom, the Blue Devils entered Monday No. 2 in offensive rating and No. 4 in defensive rating. They’re the only team in the top five in both metrics.
Freshman forward Cooper Flagg remains in the Player of the Year race with Auburn senior forward Johni Broome.
Flagg had 28 points on 10-of-16 shooting against the Demon Deacons and added eight rebounds, seven assists, three blocks and two steals.
This season, he’s averaging 19.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.2 blocks per game.
Duke has taken care of its business and has a star capable of putting the team on his back during the upcoming ACC and NCAA tournaments.
No team has been as dominant as the Blue Devils in recent weeks. It might be a precursor to future events.
Cooper Flagg Shines with 28 Points Before Checking Out to “One More Year” .
Basketball fans witnessed a memorable performance as Cooper Flagg, one of the most highly touted young prospects in recent memory, dominated the court with a spectacular 28-point outing
As he checked out of the game, the arena erupted with chants of “One more year,”signaling the crowd’s desire to see him stay and continue his collegiate journey before making the jump to the professional ranks.
Flagg, known for his elite two-way ability, put on a show, showcasing his offensive versatility, defensive intensity, and unmatched competitiveness. His performance was a reminder of why he is considered one of the most promising prospects in the game today.
From the opening tip, Flagg played with a level of confidence and composure beyond his years. His ability to score at all three levels—inside, mid-range, and beyond the arc—was on full display. Whether he was finishing strong at the rim, knocking down smooth jumpers, or draining clutch three-pointers, Flagg looked every bit the future NBA star scouts have projected him to be.
– Inside Game: Flagg’s size and athleticism allowed him to dominate in the paint. He showed off his footwork, strength, and touch around the rim, finishing through contact and converting tough layups.
– Mid-Range and Three-Point Shooting: His shooting mechanics looked smooth as he confidently pulled up from mid-range and beyond the arc, punishing defenders who sagged off him.
– Defense and Rebounding:True to his reputation, Flagg wasn’t just an offensive force. He locked down his assignments, contested shots, and grabbed key rebounds, proving why he’s considered one of the best two-way players in his class.
Flagg’s dominance was undeniable, and his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor further solidified his case as the future face of basketball.
The Chants: “One More Year” Echoes Through the Arena
As the game neared its conclusion, the coaching staff decided to give Flagg his well-earned moment. When he checked out, the crowd erupted in applause, but what followed was even more telling—chants of **”One more year”** filled the building.
Fans, teammates, and even opposing players couldn’t help but acknowledge what Flagg meant to the program and the game itself. The chant wasn’t just about admiration; it was a plea.
– A plea for him to return and lead his team to greater heights.
– A plea to postpone the inevitable transition to the NBA for just a little while longer.
– A plea to allow college basketball to bask in his greatness for another season.
It was a powerful moment, one that symbolized the connection between a player and the fans who have watched him grow into a generational talent.
With the season winding down, the biggest question surrounding Flagg’s future is whether he will return for another year or declare for the NBA Draft, where he is projected to be a top pick.
Flagg’s skill set, work ethic, and mental approach make him a no-brainer selection for any NBA franchise looking for a cornerstone player. However, the decision isn’t as straightforward as it seems.
– Returning for Another Year: Staying would allow Flagg to refine his game even further, potentially win a championship, and solidify himself as the undisputed No. 1 pick in the draft.
– Declaring for the NBA Draft:On the other hand, his stock is already sky-high. Delaying his entry into the league risks injury and uncertainty, something many top prospects choose to avoid.
Flagg has remained humble and focused, often deflecting questions about his future and prioritizing the present. Whether he decides to stay or go, one thing is certain—he has already left an indelible mark on the game.
Regardless of his decision, Flagg’s legacy is secure. He has proven time and time again that he is a generational talent capable of impacting the game in ways few can. His ability to rise to the occasion, lead his team, and command the respect of fans and opponents alike is a testament to his greatness.
As he walked off the court to the chants of “One more year,” it was clear that basketball fans aren’t ready to say goodbye just yet. Whether they get their wish remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Cooper Flagg is destined for greatness, and this is only the beginning of his story
As he presented Mike Krzyzewski as the new bench coach, Jon Scheyer remarked, “I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years.” “I received years of mentoring from him.”
Jon Scheyer Welcomes Mike Krzyzewski Back to Duke Basketball in an Emotional Move
In a heartfelt and surprising decision, Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer has brought his former mentor and legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski back into the Duke basketball program.
The announcement sent ripples through the basketball community, as Krzyzewski, who stepped away after a remarkable 40-year coaching career, was not expected to return to any coaching role. Scheyer’s words of appreciation and admiration resonated deeply with Duke fans and basketball enthusiasts worldwide.
“I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years,” Scheyer said while introducing Krzyzewski as the new bench coach. “He mentored me for years, and I wouldn’t be in this position without him. Having him by my side, even in this new role, is a dream come true.”
This moment marks the start of a fresh chapter for Duke basketball, with Krzyzewski—affectionately known as Coach K—stepping into a role no one anticipated after his 2021-2022 retirement. Though he officially concluded his head coaching career with five national championships, numerous ACC titles, and countless NCAA tournament appearances, his passion for the game and the program has clearly remained strong. His return to the bench, even in a supporting role, ensures that his influence will continue shaping Duke basketball for years to come.
A Legendary Coach’s Retirement and Unexpected Return
Mike Krzyzewski’s departure from coaching marked the end of an era in college basketball. Over four decades, he became the face of Duke Blue Devils basketball, setting a standard of excellence and competitiveness that few programs could match. Under his leadership, Duke captured five NCAA championships (1991, 1992, 2001, 2010, and 2015), reached 12 Final Fours, and produced numerous NBA stars, including Grant Hill, Kyrie Irving, and Zion Williamson.
His farewell at the conclusion of the 2021-2022 season was an emotional moment for the sport. His final game at Cameron Indoor Stadium was a historic occasion, packed with former players, colleagues, and basketball legends celebrating his contributions. In his last season, he guided Duke to the Final Four, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history.
After stepping down, Krzyzewski stated that he would still be connected to the program in some way, but few anticipated how involved he would become. Many assumed he would focus on his family and charity work rather than actively rejoining the team. However, his appointment as a bench coach has surprised many and reinvigorated Duke’s basketball culture.
Scheyer’s Journey and Coach K’s Continued Guidance
When Jon Scheyer was appointed Duke’s head coach, it was clear that his rise was deeply connected to the mentorship he received from Krzyzewski. A former Duke player and longtime assistant under Coach K, Scheyer was the natural successor to carry on the program’s tradition. His transition to head coach was expected to be smooth, thanks to the years of experience and preparation under Krzyzewski’s guidance.
However, stepping into the shoes of a coaching icon was no easy feat. Replacing a figure who shaped the program for decades came with immense pressure. But Scheyer had been trained for this moment from day one, learning the intricacies of coaching from one of the best in the sport.
Introducing Coach K as the new bench coach was more than just a symbolic move—it demonstrated continuity and stability within the program. Having Krzyzewski by his side, even in a different role, provides Scheyer with an invaluable resource as he navigates the challenges of his early seasons as head coach.
“I know I can call on him at any time for guidance,” Scheyer said with a smile. “Having him here in this capacity—being part of the team and giving me his wisdom—is a gift. He’ll continue to shape this program even though he’s not the head coach anymore. That’s the kind of person he is. He will always be part of the fabric of Duke basketball.”
Krzyzewski’s Lasting Impact on Duke Basketball
Coach K’s legacy at Duke extends far beyond the championships and accolades. He instilled a culture of discipline, integrity, and excellence that has defined Duke basketball for decades. Under his leadership, the Blue Devils became known for their high basketball IQ, toughness, and preparation—qualities that have helped shape not only great players but great leaders.
His mentorship extended beyond the court, helping players transition successfully to the NBA and life beyond basketball. Former Duke stars like Chris Duhon, Carlos Boozer, Elton Brand, and J.J. Redick have frequently spoken about the lasting impact Krzyzewski had on their careers and personal development.
His influence is also evident in the Duke basketball family, a close-knit community where players and staff maintain lifelong connections. Within college basketball, Coach K’s presence commands universal respect, and his guidance continues to shape the program’s future.
Coach K’s New Role: A New Chapter in His Legacy
While Coach K’s return as a bench coach may seem unexpected, it is not uncommon for legendary coaches to take on advisory roles after retirement. Many experienced coaches return in different capacities—whether as mentors, advisors, or special assistants—allowing them to share their knowledge without the daily responsibilities of leading a program.
For Krzyzewski, this new role enables him to stay close to the game while passing down his expertise to the next generation. As Scheyer acknowledged, Coach K’s mentorship was instrumental in shaping his coaching career. Now, with Scheyer leading the program, Krzyzewski will serve as a guiding voice, providing strategic insights, player development advice, and a steady presence.
Though he will not have the same level of responsibility as before, his wealth of experience will be an invaluable asset to the team. Scheyer, who deeply respects Krzyzewski’s basketball intellect and leadership, understands how crucial this mentorship will be for Duke’s continued success.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without Coach K,” Scheyer said. “The lessons he taught me—both in basketball and in life—are ones that I carry with me every single day. He’s more than a coach to me; he’s a mentor, a friend, and a guiding force. Having him by my side in this new role will only help Duke basketball continue to thrive.”
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future for Duke Basketball
Coach K’s return, even in a different role, has reignited excitement and enthusiasm within the Duke program. As Jon Scheyer embraces his leadership position, he now has the benefit of learning from his former mentor while carving out his own path as head coach. Though this marks the beginning of a new era, it’s evident that Duke basketball remains in strong hands with both Scheyer and Krzyzewski working together.
With a leader who understands Duke’s values and culture at the helm, and a legendary figure like Coach K offering his support, the Blue Devils are well-positioned to remain one of college basketball’s premier programs. While Krzyzewski’s retirement signaled the end of an iconic chapter, his continued presence ensures that the foundation he built will endure for years to come.
“I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years,” Scheyer said with a smile. “He mentored me for years, and I wouldn’t be here without him. His presence on the bench will continue to shape this program as we look forward to the future.”
As Duke basketball embarks on this next phase, it is clear that they are playing not just for championships but to honor the legacy of a coach who transformed the sport. The game may evolve, but Coach K’s influence will always be a cornerstone of Duke basketball. With Scheyer leading the way and Krzyzewski providing his wisdom, the Blue Devils are ready to continue their storied tradition.
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