NC State vs Duke: Blue Devils Surge Past Wolfpack in Thrilling 74-64 Win

In a highly competitive matchup, No. 2 Duke men’s basketball team defeated NC State 74-64, extending their winning streak to 14 games. Cooper Flagg led the Blue Devils with 28 points, while Kon Knueppel added 19. Despite NC State’s strong first-half shooting, Duke’s clutch free-throw shooting and second-half offensive spark secured the win. The Blue Devils outscored the Wolfpack in the paint and held them to 64 points, showcasing their defensive prowess. This victory keeps Duke undefeated in ACC play, setting them up for a crucial matchup against North Carolina on February 1.

NC State vs Duke: A Thrilling Basketball Matchup
On Monday, January 27, 2025, the No. 2 Duke Blue Devils faced off against the NC State Wolfpack in a highly anticipated men’s basketball game. The match was filled with exciting moments, showcasing the skills of both teams.

First-Half Action
The game began with NC State taking an early lead, thanks to their impressive three-point shooting. Just over nine minutes into the first half, the Wolfpack had swished 66.7% from three compared to Duke’s measly 14.3%. Despite this, Duke managed to stay in the game with spurts of momentum. Cooper Flagg made a jumper and took a steal down the court to Proctor, who faked a layup and instead assisted Kon Knueppel on a trey. This play sparked a 7-0 run for Duke, narrowing the gap to 23-19 by halftime.

Second-Half Surge
The second half saw a dramatic turn in favor of Duke. A driving layup by Khaman Maluach started the scoring, but it was Cooper Flagg who took center stage. He scored 23 of his 28 points after halftime, including a four-point-play that expanded Duke’s lead to seven, 57-50. This surge forced an NC State timeout and pushed Flagg over 20 points for the third straight game.

Key Players
Cooper Flagg was the star of the night, leading the Blue Devils with 28 points, seven rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block. Kon Knueppel added 19 points, including three first-half three-pointers and a perfect 6-for-6 from the charity stripe. Sion James contributed 13 points, four rebounds, three assists, and one steal.

Game-Changing Moments
The game was filled with crucial moments. A three-point-play by Sion James narrowed the gap to just four at halftime. After Maluach exited the game due to illness, Flagg made it a three-point game with two shots from the charity stripe. Proctor added another free throw before Flagg netted a layup for some breathing room. The Blue Devils sealed the win with a layup from Patrick Ngongba II and a string of defensive stops.

Conclusion
Duke’s 74-64 win over NC State marked their 14th consecutive victory, the longest active streak in the country. The Blue Devils’ defensive prowess and clutch free-throw shooting proved decisive in the game. This win keeps Duke undefeated in ACC play, setting them up for a crucial matchup against North Carolina on February 1.

1. Who led the scoring for Duke in the game?
   Cooper Flagg led the scoring with 28 points.
2. How many points did Kon Knueppel score?
   Kon Knueppel scored 19 points.

3. What was the final score of the game?
   The final score was 74-64 in favor of Duke.

4. How many consecutive wins does Duke have?
   Duke has 14 consecutive wins.

5. What was the key factor in Duke’s win?
   The key factor was Duke’s clutch free-throw shooting and second-half offensive spark.

6. Who contributed significantly to Duke’s defense?
   Khaman Maluach paced the Blue Devils with two blocked shots and reeled in a game-high eight boards.

7. What was the significance of Cooper Flagg’s performance?
   Cooper Flagg’s performance was significant as he scored 23 of his 28 points after halftime and led the team in scoring.

8. How did NC State’s three-point shooting affect the game initially?
   NC State’s three-point shooting initially gave them a strong lead, with 66.7% from three compared to Duke’s 14.3%.

9. What was the outcome of the game despite NC State’s strong start?
   Despite NC State’s strong start, Duke managed to pull through with clutch free-throw shooting and a second-half offensive spark.

10. What is Duke’s current standing in the ACC?
    Duke is undefeated in ACC play, with a 10-0 record.

Duke’s 74-64 win over NC State marked a significant victory in their ongoing streak. Cooper Flagg’s dominant performance and the team’s defensive prowess were crucial in securing the win. This victory keeps Duke undefeated in ACC play, setting them up for a crucial matchup against North Carolina on February 1.