Duke wasted no time making a statement Saturday afternoon.

In a game rescheduled earlier in the day to beat an impending winter snowstorm, the No. 1-ranked Duke Blue Devils delivered a dominant performance, running past Wake Forest with a convincing 91–69 victory. The win not only showcased Duke’s firepower but also reinforced why the Blue Devils currently sit atop the ACC and near the summit of college basketball’s national landscape.

Leading the charge once again was Cam Boozer, who continued his extraordinary season with a commanding 32-point, 9-rebound performance that further strengthened his case as a National Player of the Year frontrunner.

Boozer Sets the Tone Early

From the opening tip, it was clear that Duke intended to control the game on both ends of the floor. Boozer attacked early and often, scoring from all three levels and putting immediate pressure on Wake Forest’s defense.

Whether it was pulling up from mid-range, finishing through contact, or stepping confidently into open three-pointers, Boozer looked unstoppable. By halftime, he had already piled up 18 points, forcing the Demon Deacons to adjust defensive schemes that ultimately proved ineffective.

“He’s playing with confidence and patience,” a Duke assistant said postgame. “That’s what separates great players from elite ones.”

Balanced Scoring Fuels the Blowout

While Boozer was the headline, Duke’s depth and balance once again proved to be the difference.

“Big Pat” delivered a strong interior presence, finishing with 13 points while anchoring the defense in the paint. His physicality disrupted Wake Forest’s rhythm, limiting second-chance opportunities and forcing contested shots.

Isaiah Evans added 11 points, providing timely scoring and perimeter defense that helped Duke maintain momentum whenever Wake Forest threatened a run. Evans’ ability to contribute without forcing offense continues to be a major asset for the Blue Devils.

Duke finished with four players in double figures and shot efficiently from the field, a testament to ball movement and unselfish play.

Defense Breaks the Game Open

While Duke’s offense was impressive, it was the defense that truly broke the game open.

The Blue Devils applied relentless pressure, switching seamlessly on the perimeter and protecting the rim with authority. Wake Forest struggled to find clean looks, particularly during a decisive second-half stretch when Duke went on a 14–2 run that erased any lingering doubt about the outcome.

Fast-break opportunities followed defensive stops, allowing Duke to push the tempo and turn the game into a track meet—an environment perfectly suited to their athletic roster.

A Team Playing With Purpose

What stands out most about this Duke team is not just talent, but consistency.

At 7–0 in ACC play and 18–1 overall, the Blue Devils have separated themselves from the rest of the conference. Night after night, they show the same discipline, focus, and execution, regardless of opponent or circumstance.

The rescheduled afternoon tip, often a recipe for sluggish starts, had no impact on Duke’s energy or preparation. From warmups to the final horn, the Blue Devils looked locked in.

“That’s the mark of a veteran team,” one ACC analyst noted. “They don’t need perfect conditions to play well.”

Cam Boozer’s National Player of the Year Push

With each passing game, Cam Boozer’s résumé grows stronger.

The 32-point performance was not just about scoring—it was about control. Boozer dictated pace, made smart decisions with the ball, and elevated his teammates through spacing and gravity.

His efficiency, composure, and leadership have become the backbone of Duke’s success, and the national spotlight is taking notice.

Against Wake Forest, Boozer shot at a high percentage, avoided foul trouble, and remained poised even as defensive attention intensified. Those traits are exactly what voters look for in National Player of the Year candidates.

ACC Title Aspirations Grow Louder

Duke’s undefeated conference record places them firmly in the driver’s seat for the ACC regular-season title. While the season is far from over, the Blue Devils have already built a cushion that could prove crucial down the stretch.

What makes Duke particularly dangerous is their adaptability. They can win high-scoring games, grind out defensive battles, and adjust to different styles of play—a rare combination even among elite teams.

With every conference victory, expectations rise—but Duke has shown no signs of cracking under pressure.

Short Turnaround, Big Stage Ahead

There’s little time to celebrate.

Duke now faces a quick turnaround as they prepare to host Louisville on Monday night, a marquee matchup featured on ESPN’s first Big Monday of the season.

Big Monday games often bring heightened intensity, national attention, and emotional swings—but Duke appears built for moments like these.

Louisville presents a different challenge, with physical guards and aggressive defense, but the Blue Devils’ depth and preparation should serve them well.

“This team doesn’t flinch,” said a Duke player after the win. “We’re already focused on the next one.”

Final Takeaway

Saturday’s 91–69 victory over Wake Forest was more than just another win—it was a reminder.

A reminder that Duke is deep.
A reminder that Cam Boozer is special.
And a reminder that the Blue Devils are not just competing in the ACC—they’re setting the standard.

As the season moves toward its most demanding stretch, Duke continues to look every bit like a championship contender, powered by elite talent, disciplined execution, and a clear sense of purpose.

Monday night can’t come soon enough.