Duke vs. Wake Forest: Can the Blue Devils Extend Their Winning Streak?

On January 25, 2025, the Duke Blue Devils faced off against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in a highly anticipated matchup that showcased the competitive spirit of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). The game, held at Duke’s Cameron Indoor Stadium, drew significant attention from fans and analysts alike, as both teams were vying for crucial positioning in the NCAA tournament. With a fervent atmosphere and a long-standing rivalry at stake, the stakes couldn’t have been higher.

The Blue Devils entered the game ranked No. 2 in the nation and riding a remarkable 13-game winning streak. They had established themselves as a formidable force in college basketball, boasting an impressive 17-2 overall record and a perfect 9-0 in the ACC. Conversely, Wake Forest was looking to extend their own winning streak, having won their last seven games in the conference, five of which came by double digits. The stage was set for an intense battle.

Duke started strong, taking a commanding 13-point lead at halftime. Their standout player, Cooper Flagg, was instrumental in this early success, scoring 24 points while also contributing seven rebounds and six assists. However, the second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum as Wake Forest mounted a fierce comeback. The Demon Deacons went on a 23-4 run, taking a six-point lead and putting the Blue Devils on the defensive.

Despite facing adversity, Duke’s resilience shone through. They struggled offensively at the start of the second half, allowing Wake Forest to claw back into the game. However, a pivotal adjustment by Duke’s coach, Jon Scheyer, proved crucial. The Blue Devils switched to a zone defense, a strategy they had limited practice with this season. Scheyer praised his team’s ability to adapt, stating, “We were able to execute the zone effectively, which helped us regain control of the game.”

Wake Forest’s struggles with shooting were evident throughout the contest. The Demon Deacons finished with a dismal 17% from three-point range and only 65% from the free-throw line. This lack of offensive efficiency was compounded by Duke’s effective defense, which limited Wake Forest’s top scorers, Hunter Sallis and Cam Hildreth, to a combined 16 points on 6-of-18 shooting. The Blue Devils’ defensive effort not only stifled Wake Forest’s scoring but also allowed them to maintain their lead and ultimately secure the victory.

As the final buzzer sounded, Duke emerged victorious with a score of 63-56, marking their 13th consecutive win. This victory was particularly significant as it ended Wake Forest’s winning streak, which had persisted since December. With this win, Duke solidified their status as a national championship contender while also positioning themselves favorably for the NCAA tournament.

However, the implications of the game extended beyond the victory itself. Wake Forest’s loss may impact their NCAA tournament seeding, as they now hold a 1-5 record in Quad 1 games, which are critical for tournament selection. Their upcoming road game against Louisville will be pivotal for the Demon Deacons as they seek to rebound from this setback and solidify their postseason aspirations.

In conclusion, the Duke vs. Wake Forest matchup was more than just a game; it was a testament to the competitive nature of college basketball. The Blue Devils showcased their resilience and adaptability, while the Demon Deacons demonstrated their fighting spirit despite the loss. As both teams look ahead to the remainder of the season, fans can expect more thrilling moments in this storied rivalry. Duke’s victory not only extends their winning streak but also highlights their determination to remain a dominant force in the ACC and beyond.