Key Highlights
- No. 1 Duke returns to ACC action at No. 24 Notre Dame.
- Duke leads the series with a 32-8 record against Notre Dame, including a 9-4 edge in South Bend.
- Cameron Boozer is the nation’s fifth-leading scorer and tops the ACC in rebounding.
- No. 1 Duke has won three of its last four meetings with top-ranked Michigan, defeating them on Feb. 24, 2026.
The Game of the Week
No. 1 Duke makes a return to ACC play on Tuesday night against Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. The Blue Devils come into this matchup with an impressive 35-game winning streak against conference opponents and a record 148 weeks at No. 1 in the Associated Press poll.
The game is significant not just because of Duke’s dominance but also due to their impressive defensive efforts, which have held all but two of their 27 opponents below their scoring average this season.
Boozer’s Dominance
Cameron Boozer leads the nation in scoring and rebounding for the Blue Devils. His performance is a testament to Duke’s overall strength on both ends of the court, but his individual contributions cannot be overlooked. Boozer has recorded at least 14 points, five rebounds, and two assists in all 27 games this season, making him one of the most consistent players in Division I basketball.
Boozer’s scoring prowess is highlighted by his record-breaking performance against Michigan on Feb. 24, 2026, where he nearly finished with a triple-double, contributing 18 points and seven assists in the Blue Devils’ victory over the Wolverines.
Past Performances
No. 1 Duke has a strong track record against top-ranked teams, having won three of its last four meetings with Michigan, including an impressive victory on Feb. 24, 2026. The Blue Devils also hold the best record in Division I over the past two seasons, boasting a perfect 7-0 mark in neutral-site matchups with their rivals.
The series against Notre Dame is also one of Duke’s strong suits, with the Blue Devils leading the all-time series 32-8. This year’s matchup will be crucial for both teams as they vie for ACC supremacy and national attention.
Defensive Fortress
No. 1 Duke’s defensive efficiency is a key factor in their success. The Blue Devils are one of only two teams ranked in the top-seven nationally in both offensive (127.1, 7th) and defensive (89.8, 3rd) efficiency ratings according to KenPom.com. Their ability to limit opposing teams’ scoring has been a hallmark of their season.
The game against Notre Dame will be another test for Duke’s defense, but the Blue Devils are well-prepared with an elite defensive strategy that has proven successful in previous matchups.