In a thrilling Sweet 16 matchup, No. 1-seed Duke and No. 4-seed Arizona battled through an intense first half, with the Blue Devils holding a slim 48-42 lead. The highly anticipated NCAA Tournament showdown has delivered fast-paced action, sharp shooting, and key strategic adjustments. Here are five major observations from the opening 20 minutes:
1. Familiar Foes, High Stakes
When Duke and Arizona announced a home-and-home series for the 2023-24 season, head coach Jon Scheyer highlighted the excitement of seeing two storied programs clash on big stages. That vision has come to life in the NCAA Tournament, where both teams are fighting for a coveted spot in the Elite Eight.
Earlier this season, Duke secured a decisive 69-55 victory over Arizona in Tucson. However, the Wildcats have since sharpened their game, finishing as runners-up in the Big 12 Tournament. Former North Carolina Tar Heel Caleb Love, now with Arizona, is facing Duke for the 10th time in his collegiate career. With Tyrese Proctor defending him well in past matchups, Love is seeking redemption in a high-pressure setting.
2. Maliq Brown’s Return Adds Depth
Maliq Brown has faced multiple setbacks this season, suffering two painful shoulder dislocations—first against Virginia and again in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals versus Georgia Tech. Despite the injuries, he returned to action just two weeks later, entering the game with 7:51 left in the first half while wearing a protective sleeve on his left shoulder.
His return was much-needed as Duke’s primary big men, Patrick Ngongba II and Khaman Maluach, both encountered early foul trouble. Brown showed defensive grit against Arizona’s Henri Veesaar and contributed with a rebound, an assist, and a steal in limited minutes, providing Duke with valuable depth in the paint.
3. Rebounding Battle Tightens
In their regular-season matchup, Duke dominated the boards, out-rebounding Arizona 43-30. The first half of this Sweet 16 contest, however, has been more balanced. With Brown on the bench for much of the early minutes, the Wildcats managed to keep the rebounding margin close at 15-12.
Despite this, freshman sensation Cooper Flagg’s relentless effort on the offensive glass stood out. After missing a layup at the 10:25 mark, he fought for two offensive rebounds, setting up Isaiah Evans for his first three-pointer of the tournament. Mason Gillis also grabbed key rebounds at both ends. While both teams have secured six second-chance points, rebounding in the second half could be a decisive factor.
4. Three-Point Shootout
Following Alabama’s record-breaking 26 three-pointers in their 110-point explosion earlier in the night, Duke and Arizona also came out firing from beyond the arc. Sion James got things rolling for the Blue Devils early, setting the tone for a high-scoring half.
Arizona’s Anthony Dell’Orso and Trey Townsend responded with back-to-back-to-back triples, while Flagg and Proctor showcased their shooting prowess. Freshman Isaiah Evans, who had missed all seven of his three-point attempts in the tournament so far, finally broke through, sinking his first shot of the night. By halftime, the teams had combined for 14 made three-pointers, both shooting above 50% from deep.
5. Cooper Flagg: The Standout Performer
Freshman phenom Cooper Flagg has been the best player on the court, making an impact on both ends. He leads all scorers with 18 points, knocking down two three-pointers, finishing in the paint, and converting at the free-throw line. His four rebounds also top both teams, as possessions have been scarce due to strong shooting performances on both sides.
As the first half neared its end, Flagg continued to dominate inside, taking full advantage of his height against Arizona’s defense. His confidence soared as he raced down the court to hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer, sending Duke into halftime with momentum and a six-point advantage.
Second-Half Outlook
With just six points separating the teams, the second half promises to be a battle. Arizona will look to tighten its defense and crash the boards more effectively, while Duke hopes to maintain its sharp shooting and defensive intensity. If Flagg continues his dominant play and Brown provides key minutes, the Blue Devils will have a strong chance to secure a spot in the Elite Eight.
