After their tough loss to Kentucky earlier in the week, the No. 6 Duke men’s basketball team returned to the friendly confines of Cameron Indoor Stadium to take on Wofford. The Blue Devils were determined to rebound from the setback, and they did so in commanding fashion, leading 51-14 at halftime. The game marked a solid recovery, showcasing the team’s resilience and ability to regroup after a loss.
The early moments of the game, however, didn’t start out as planned. Duke’s shooting was cold, and they missed their first four attempts. But the Blue Devils quickly found their rhythm, with Tyrese Proctor sinking a couple of three-pointers and Kon Knueppel adding his own. These shots helped Duke take control, and once they established the lead, they never looked back. The energy from the Cameron Crazies certainly played a role in lifting the Blue Devils after their challenging game in Kentucky. The atmosphere was electric, and the team’s performance reflected that renewed energy.
Injury Comebacks and Player Adjustments
Duke’s lineup also saw some notable adjustments as players returned from injury. Freshman center Khaman Maluach, who had struggled with cramps during the Kentucky game, was back on the floor against Wofford. Though he briefly exited the game after a minor foot issue, Maluach returned with a powerful alley-oop, showing no signs of lingering effects from his earlier discomfort. Another important player, Sion James, also made his comeback after missing the Kentucky game due to an injury. James’s return added significant depth to Duke’s lineup, and his presence was felt throughout the first half.
One of the most exciting developments for Duke fans was the season debut of freshman Patrick Ngongba II. The highly-anticipated player had undergone foot surgery the previous year, and his return to the court was met with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. Ngongba’s addition to the team strengthens Duke’s frontcourt, especially in terms of size and versatility. Coach Jon Scheyer took advantage of his presence, experimenting with double-big lineups that featured Ngongba alongside junior Maliq Brown. This combination worked well, with Ngongba contributing to Duke’s offensive flow, including scoring a layup off a pass from Cooper Flagg.
Shooting Surge and Defensive Dominance
Shooting from beyond the arc was another area where Duke improved dramatically compared to their previous game. After a disappointing 4-for-23 performance from three-point range against Kentucky, the Blue Devils were far more efficient against Wofford. With about 10 minutes left in the first half, Duke had already surpassed their previous three-point total, with James knocking down their fifth triple. By halftime, they had hit eight three-pointers, with five different players contributing to the long-range barrage. This shooting resurgence underscored Duke’s potential as a high-scoring team capable of stretching defenses. In stark contrast, Wofford struggled from deep, shooting a dismal 2-for-19 from beyond the arc and managing only 14 total points in the first half.
Tyrese Proctor’s Standout Performance
Tyrese Proctor, one of Duke’s two returning starters this season, played a crucial role in the team’s dominance. The sophomore point guard led the charge, scoring 12 points on 4-for-6 shooting, including 3-for-4 from three-point range. Proctor’s scoring was complemented by his all-around game, adding two rebounds, two assists, and a steal. His performance in the first half was a perfect example of his potential as a well-rounded and efficient player. As a floor general, Proctor’s ability to control the game and contribute in multiple areas was key to Duke’s success. His all-around performance continues to show why he’s considered one of the top players in the country.
In conclusion, Duke’s victory over Wofford was a statement game following their loss to Kentucky, demonstrating their depth, shooting prowess, and ability to bounce back quickly. With key players like Proctor, Ngongba, and James contributing in significant ways, the Blue Devils appear poised for a successful season. The team’s mix of offensive firepower and defensive intensity, particularly from long-range shooting, will be a major asset as they continue their journey through the 2024 season.