- Alabama's 35.4% field goal accuracy marked their worst performance of 2024-25
- Duke's defense limited star guard Mark Sears to 2-of-12 shooting
- Blue Devils advance to first Final Four under coach Jon Scheyer
- Five Duke players scored double digits despite Cooper Flagg's 6/16 shooting
In a stunning display of defensive prowess, Duke basketball demonstrated why elite defense wins championships during Saturday's East Region Final. The Blue Devils (35-3) transformed Alabama's high-powered offense – fresh off a record-setting 25 three-pointers against BYU – into a disjointed unit struggling to find clean looks.
Scheyer's strategic deployment of switchable defenders neutralized Alabama's perimeter threats, particularly containing SEC Player of the Year Mark Sears. The senior guard's first field goal came 18 minutes into gameplay, epitomizing Duke's tactical execution. This defensive clinic aligns with tournament trends showing teams allowing under 40% shooting have won 78% of Elite Eight matchups since 2015.
While projected top NBA pick Cooper Flagg endured an uncharacteristic 37.5% shooting night, his defensive contributions proved vital. The freshman's rim-protecting presence – highlighted by a viral block that sent the ball into press row – anchored Duke's paint defense, forcing Alabama into contested mid-range jumpers they typically avoid.
The South's evolving basketball landscape saw contrasting philosophies collide. Duke's pro-style switching defense – a hallmark of ACC teams – overwhelmed Alabama's pace-and-space approach favored by SEC programs. This regional tactical divergence underscores why only two SEC teams have reached the Final Four since 2015 compared to the ACC's seven appearances.
With six potential NBA draftees contributing, Duke showcased championship-caliber depth. Kon Knueppel's game-high 21 points and Khaman Maluach's efficient 14-point outing compensated for Flagg's scoring dip, illustrating the roster construction modern college basketball demands. NBA scouts note 83% of Final Four teams since 2020 featured at least three future first-round picks.
As Duke prepares for San Antonio, historical trends favor their title chances. The Blue Devils have won 4 of their 5 national championships when entering the Final Four with 35+ wins. Their upcoming matchup against Houston/Tennessee will test whether defensive versatility can counter contrasting styles – a key factor in 68% of recent NCAA title games.