The Wake Forest basketball team is set to face a challenging matchup against the Duke Blue Devils this weekend in Durham. Scheduled for a noon tip-off, the game comes after Wake Forest experienced a disappointing home loss to the SMU Mustangs, where they fell 91-79. The final score does not fully reflect the game, as Wake trailed by nine points at halftime and fell behind by 20 in the second half before making a late push.
Defensively, the Deacs struggled significantly against SMU, allowing their opponents to make 14 three-pointers, many of which were uncontested. This upcoming game against the No. 5-ranked Duke poses an even greater challenge. The game time was adjusted from 5:45 PM to noon due to anticipated weather conditions.
Duke is led by five-star freshman Cameron Boozer, who is projected to be a top-five pick in the upcoming NBA draft. Currently, he is a frontrunner for the ACC Player of the Year, boasting averages of 23.2 points and 9.9 rebounds per game, placing him among the top scorers in college basketball. Standing at 6″9″, Boozer also showcases his shooting ability with a three-point percentage of 37.7%, which poses a significant challenge for the Deacs” defense.
Additionally, Isaiah Evans contributes significantly with an average of 14.6 points per game while shooting over 35% from three-point range. Center Patrick Ngongba II adds to Duke”s inside presence, also averaging double figures.
Fortunately for Wake Forest, Duke”s three-point shooting has been less impressive, averaging 34.7%, ranking 132nd according to KenPom. However, they excel in two-point shooting, converting 62.7% of attempts, which is among the best in the nation. In contrast, Wake Forest has struggled defensively, ranking 306th in two-point defense, allowing opponents to shoot an average of 55.6% from that range.
It is likely that Duke will aim to exploit Wake Forest”s weaknesses in the paint and on the boards. The Deacs must find a way to disrupt Duke”s efficiency inside the arc. One glimmer of hope for Wake is their ability to create steals, ranking in the top 25 nationally in that category, while Duke struggles with ball security, sitting at 235th in terms of turnovers.
To have a chance against Duke, Wake Forest must capitalize on any turnovers and improve their shooting performance, especially beyond the arc. They cannot afford to repeat their lackluster shooting display against SMU, where they shot below 30% from three-point range.
Despite their recent struggles, the Deacs are determined to play spoiler. If they can maintain defensive consistency and avoid prolonged scoring droughts, there is potential for an upset. Earlier in the season, they nearly toppled the No. 3-ranked Michigan in a thrilling contest.
This high-stakes rivalry game promises to be exciting, with both teams aiming for victory as they head into the heart of the season.
