Get ready for an exciting college basketball recap that will have you on the edge of your seat!
Duke's Dominance Continues: A Thrilling Victory Over SMU
In a highly anticipated matchup, Duke University's basketball team, ranked No. 6, faced off against SMU, ranked No. 24, on January 10, 2026. The game, held in Durham, North Carolina, delivered an intense and thrilling experience for both teams and their fans.
Isaiah Evans, Duke's star player, stole the show with his exceptional performance. He scored an impressive 21 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with just over a minute left on the clock. This shot, assisted by the talented freshman Cam Boozer, sealed the deal for Duke, echoing the team's victory over Florida in December. Evans' ability to create space and drain threes is a testament to his skill and composure under pressure.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Patrick Ngongba II, another Duke standout, tied his career-high scoring record with 17 points. However, some argue that his performance was overshadowed by Evans' heroics. Ngongba's consistency and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates should not be overlooked.
Duke's victory wasn't just about individual performances. The team shot an impressive 49% from the field, showcasing their offensive prowess. Additionally, their 25-game home winning streak is a testament to their dominance on their own court.
SMU, despite their valiant effort, faced a tough challenge without their leading scorer, Boopie Moller, who was sidelined due to illness. Jaden Toombs stepped up for the Mustangs, scoring 23 points with an impressive 10-for-12 shooting performance.
And this is the part most people miss...
SMU's biggest obstacle was their turnover rate. They committed 21 turnovers, which led to 21 points for Duke. This highlights the importance of ball control and precision in high-pressure situations.
During halftime, Duke celebrated the 25th anniversary of their 2001 NCAA championship. Former NBA players and Duke alumni, including Shane Battier, Carlos Boozer, Mike Dunleavy, and Jay Williams, joined the retired Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski at midcourt. It was a heartwarming moment, bringing together generations of Duke basketball greatness.
As for the future, SMU will look to bounce back when they host Virginia Tech on Wednesday. Duke, on the other hand, embarks on their first cross-country ACC trip, visiting California on the same day.
So, what do you think? Was Duke's victory solely due to their star players' performances, or did their overall team effort play a bigger role? And how will SMU recover from this loss? Join the discussion and share your thoughts in the comments!
