In the 2025 NCAA Tournament’s East Region final, the Duke Blue Devils showcased their dominance with an 85–65 victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide, securing their 18th Final Four appearance. Despite a challenging shooting night from freshman standout Cooper Flagg, Duke’s cohesive team performance and stifling defense underscored their championship aspirations.

Defensive Mastery Leads the Way

Duke’s defensive strategy was pivotal in neutralizing Alabama’s high-powered offense. The Blue Devils held the Crimson Tide to a mere 35.4% shooting from the field and a paltry 25% from beyond the arc. Alabama’s leading scorer, Mark Sears, was limited to just six points, a testament to Duke’s relentless perimeter defense and interior presence. Freshman center Khaman Maluach anchored the paint, contributing significantly to the team’s defensive efforts.

Offensive Contributions Across the Board

While Flagg faced shooting difficulties, finishing 6-of-16 from the field, his teammates stepped up to fill the void. Kon Knueppel led the scoring with 21 points, showcasing his offensive versatility. Tyrese Proctor added 17 points, providing stability and leadership in the backcourt. The team’s balanced scoring and unselfish play were instrumental in building and maintaining their lead throughout the game.

Flagg’s Multifaceted Impact

Despite his shooting woes, Flagg contributed in other facets of the game, including rebounds, assists, and defensive plays. His ability to influence the game beyond scoring highlights his all-around skill set and maturity beyond his years. Coach Jon Scheyer praised Flagg’s resilience and impact, emphasizing the freshman’s importance to the team’s success.

Scheyer’s Coaching Prowess

In his third year at the helm, Coach Scheyer has guided Duke to a 35–4 record and their first Final Four appearance under his leadership. His ability to integrate a mix of seasoned players and talented freshmen into a cohesive unit speaks volumes about his coaching acumen. Scheyer’s emphasis on defense, teamwork, and adaptability has been evident throughout the tournament.

Looking Ahead

With their victory over Alabama, Duke advances to face the winner of the Houston-Tennessee matchup in the Final Four. The Blue Devils’ combination of defensive tenacity, offensive depth, and experienced coaching positions them as formidable contenders for the national championship. As they prepare for the next challenge, Duke aims to continue their tradition of excellence on college basketball’s grandest stage.