The No. 2 ranked Duke Blue Devils continued their impressive run on Saturday, January 25, 2025, securing a gritty 63-56 victory over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. With this win, Duke extended its winning streak to 13 games, bolstering its position as a top contender in college basketball. Despite a strong effort from Wake Forest, the Blue Devils showcased resilience and composure in a game filled with momentum swings and high stakes.
A Standout Performance by Cooper Flagg
Freshman forward Cooper Flagg once again demonstrated why he is one of the most exciting young talents in college basketball. Leading Duke with 24 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, Flagg was instrumental in his team’s victory. His ability to deliver under pressure, create scoring opportunities, and maintain a commanding presence on both ends of the court proved vital in Duke’s success. Flagg’s leadership on the floor, despite being a freshman, continues to set him apart.
Flagg’s dominance was complemented by significant contributions from his teammates. Guard Kon Knueppel added 15 points, showcasing his shooting range and ability to penetrate Wake Forest’s defense. Forward Mason Gillis was another critical player off the bench, scoring 11 points and adding crucial energy during pivotal moments of the game.
Wake Forest’s Grit and Struggles
Wake Forest entered the game with momentum, riding a six-game winning streak, the longest for the program in two decades. Their performance this season has positioned them as formidable competitors in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). However, the Demon Deacons struggled offensively in this matchup, shooting just 37.3% from the field. Their performance from beyond the arc was even more concerning, as they managed to hit only 3 of their 18 attempts.
Despite these struggles, freshman Juke Harris emerged as a bright spot for Wake Forest. Coming off the bench, Harris scored 14 points and provided a much-needed spark to his team. Guard Hunter Sallis, known for his scoring consistency, contributed 12 points but fell short of his season average. While the individual efforts were commendable, the team’s inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and maintain offensive rhythm ultimately cost them the game.
A Tale of Two Halves
The game unfolded in dramatic fashion, marked by significant momentum shifts. Duke dominated the first half, taking advantage of Wake Forest’s shooting woes. The Blue Devils established a 35-22 lead at halftime, controlling the tempo and forcing the Demon Deacons into difficult shots. Wake Forest’s inability to convert from beyond the arc—going 0-for-9 in the first half—further widened the gap.
However, the second half was a completely different story. Wake Forest came out with renewed energy, launching a stunning 23-4 run to seize a 45-39 lead midway through the half. This resurgence was fueled by improved ball movement, aggressive drives to the basket, and defensive intensity that rattled Duke. The home crowd at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum played a significant role, energizing the Demon Deacons as they clawed their way back into the game.
Duke’s Response and Key Plays
Faced with adversity, Duke showed why they are one of the top teams in the nation. The Blue Devils answered Wake Forest’s run with a decisive 14-2 spurt of their own, reclaiming the lead at 53-47 with under four minutes remaining. This sequence was marked by clutch plays from key players. Tyrese Proctor drained a critical three-pointer during this stretch, and Mason Gillis followed with another from beyond the arc, silencing the home crowd and shifting momentum back in Duke’s favor.
Defensively, Duke tightened its grip, forcing Wake Forest into tough shots and turnovers during the closing minutes. Cooper Flagg’s leadership was particularly evident in this phase, as he orchestrated the offense and made crucial stops on defense. The Blue Devils’ ability to execute in crunch time highlighted their experience and composure, traits that will serve them well as the season progresses.
The Impact of the Win
This victory improved Duke’s record to 17-2 overall and 9-0 in the ACC, solidifying their position at the top of the conference standings. The Blue Devils have demonstrated remarkable consistency this season, with a balanced roster that combines young talent and veteran experience. Their ability to adapt to different game situations and maintain focus under pressure has been a hallmark of their success.
For Wake Forest, the loss marked their first home defeat of the season. Previously undefeated in 10 games at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, the Demon Deacons now hold a 15-5 overall record and a 7-2 mark in the ACC. Despite the setback, their performance in the second half against a top-tier opponent like Duke highlights their potential to compete at a high level. The challenge for Wake Forest moving forward will be to address their offensive inconsistencies and build on the positives from this game.
Looking Ahead
Both teams face important matchups in the coming week. Duke will return to Cameron Indoor Stadium on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, to take on the Louisville Cardinals. With their home-court advantage and current form, the Blue Devils will aim to extend their winning streak to 14 games and continue their march toward postseason success.
Wake Forest, on the other hand, will look to regroup as they prepare to face the Virginia Cavaliers on the same day. The Demon Deacons have shown resilience throughout the season, and a strong response against Virginia could help them regain momentum and confidence.
Conclusion
Saturday’s game between Duke and Wake Forest was a testament to the intensity and unpredictability of college basketball. While Duke emerged victorious, the contest showcased the competitive spirit of both teams. For the Blue Devils, the win reinforced their status as one of the nation’s elite programs, while the Demon Deacons proved they are a team capable of challenging the best. As the ACC season continues to unfold, both teams will look to build on this game and pursue their goals in what promises to be an exciting stretch of basketball.
