Duke’s defensive performance against Virginia on Saturday afternoon at Cameron Indoor to secure at least a share of the ACC regular season title may be the most oppressive in college basketball this season.
The Blue Devils, who were chasing the Cavaliers in the ACC race, were expected to face their greatest challenge. After taking a 15-point lead at halftime and never looking back, Duke turned what should have been a competitive game into a farce, winning 77-51.
The game was never truly in doubt, and although Duke’s outstanding three-point shooting (12-of-24) gave them an offensive boost, the game was ultimately won by a strong defensive effort.
The season-low points (51) and field-goal percentage (29%), respectively, were set by Duke against Virginia. Before Saturday in Durham, no club had held the Hoos to fewer than 60 points this season.
In the postgame, Jon Scheyer didn’t wait to express his pride in that effort.
“I’m really proud of our team, we’ve just had such a mature approach with our defense,” Scheyer said. “It’s our calling card, and I don’t want to take that for granted. The effort, the togetherness, the discipline, I’m just really proud.”
Jon Scheyer ‘really proud’ of Duke’s defensive effort in win over Virginia
Ryan Odom, the head coach of Virginia, and his staff likely thought Duke was using an additional man or two to play defense. On that end of the court, the Blue Devils seldom ever make mistakes, and when they do, they have the athleticism and discipline to get back up and challenge a shot.
Virginia struggled with Duke’s ability to move from one to five, and attractive looks were hard to come by. Although Virginia’s three-point shooting percentage is in the top third of the nation (35.6%), just 7 of 35 shots (20%) were made.
Maliq Brown, who finished with a game-high three steals, is the defensive engine that comes off the bench. However, the 26-point victory was the result of a collective effort on that end of the court.
This Duke team’s identity is obvious. With an offense that can smash you in the paint with Cameron Boozer and get hot from three, it’s defense first.
As March Madness draws near, the Blue Devils seem to be settling into their final shape.
