Blue Devils Assert ACC Dominance as Duke Powers Past SMU in Statement Performance…Read More….

Blue Devils Assert ACC Dominance as Duke Powers Past SMU in Statement Performance…Read More….

Duke delivered a commanding message to the rest of the Atlantic Coast Conference with a convincing 82–68 victory over SMU, using elite defense, disciplined execution, and superior depth to control the contest from start to finish. Played in a charged ACC setting, the matchup marked another step in Duke’s push for conference dominance and national relevance.

From the opening tip, Duke set the tone defensively. The Blue Devils applied heavy ball pressure, forcing SMU into early turnovers and rushed possessions. Duke’s game plan was clear: disrupt SMU’s perimeter-oriented offense, dominate the paint, and push the tempo off defensive stops. That strategy paid immediate dividends, as Duke raced to an early double-digit lead behind aggressive transition play and efficient shot selection.

By halftime, Duke had built a 41–30 advantage, holding SMU to under 40 percent shooting while controlling the rebounding battle. Duke’s interior defense limited SMU’s effectiveness near the rim, while quick rotations on the perimeter reduced open three-point attempts. The Blue Devils also capitalized on SMU mistakes, converting turnovers into easy points.

Offensively, Duke showcased balance and patience. Rather than relying on isolation basketball, the Blue Devils moved the ball effectively, finishing the game with 18 assists on 30 made field goals. Strong post play forced SMU to collapse defensively, opening space for shooters and cutters. Duke also attacked the offensive glass, earning critical second-chance points that kept momentum firmly on their side.

SMU attempted to respond in the second half by increasing tempo and attacking early in the shot clock. The Mustangs briefly cut the deficit to single digits midway through the period, fueled by improved perimeter shooting and transition scoring. However, Duke answered decisively with a defensive surge, forcing consecutive empty possessions and extending the lead back to comfortable territory.

The Blue Devils’ ability to defend without fouling proved decisive. Duke limited SMU to a modest number of free-throw attempts, while maintaining physicality in the paint. On the other end, Duke’s composure at the line helped close out the game, preventing any late comeback attempt.

Statistically, Duke finished the night shooting 48 percent from the field, while holding SMU to 39 percent. The Blue Devils also won the rebounding battle and committed fewer turnovers, reflecting their discipline and control throughout the contest. These numbers underscored Duke’s dominance beyond the final score.

The atmosphere surrounding the game reflected its significance, with Duke feeding off the energy of the crowd and responding confidently to every SMU run. The performance highlighted Duke’s growing chemistry and execution as ACC play intensifies.

With the 82–68 win, Duke not only secured another important conference victory but also reinforced its status as a team built to compete deep into the season. For SMU, the loss served as a learning moment against an elite opponent. For Duke, it was a statement—one that echoed loudly across the ACC.