CHARLOTTE, N.C. – No. 1-seed Duke overcame an eight-point second-half deficit to defeat No. 8-seed Florida State, 80-79, in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals on Thursday, March 12. The Blue Devils (30-2) rallied with a 19-2 scoring run after trailing 59-51 with 13 minutes remaining. The Seminoles (18-15) had a final shot at the buzzer, but it missed.
Duke Rallies to Advance in ACC Tournament
Isaiah Evans led all scorers with a career-high 32 points, fueled by a career-best seven three-pointers. Cameron Boozer added 23 points and 10 rebounds for Duke, marking his 18th double-double of the season and 11th with at least 20 points.
Maliq Brown secured 12 total rebounds, matching his career high and Duke collected a season-high 22 offensive rebounds, resulting in a 24-7 advantage in second-chance points. Cameron Boozer also led the team with four assists.
Game Recap
Duke opened the scoring with a floater from Cayden Boozer. Florida State responded with a three-pointer, but Isaiah Evans answered with a triple of his own, giving Duke an early 7-3 lead. Florida State later went on a 10-0 run to take a 15-11 lead.
Evans continued to score, reaching double figures with 11 points, and Duke regained the lead at 18-17. Evans finished the first half with 22 points, including five three-pointers, but Florida State led 44-43 at halftime.
Florida State extended their lead to eight points early in the second half, 59-51, before Duke began its comeback. Boozer and Evans combined to cut the deficit to one point, 59-58, forcing a Florida State timeout. A steal and layup by Maliq Brown put Duke back in front, and a 12-0 run extended their lead to 69-61.
The teams traded three-pointers down the stretch, but a layup by Cayden Boozer kept Duke ahead by three with under a minute remaining. Florida State’s final shot at the buzzer missed, securing the 80-79 victory for Duke.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Duke vs. Florida State game?
The final score was Duke 80, Florida State 79.
Who led Duke in scoring?
Isaiah Evans led Duke in scoring with a career-high 32 points.
What is Duke’s record this season?
Duke’s record is now 30-2.
With a win secured, what challenges might Duke face as they continue their pursuit of the ACC Tournament title?
