Determined Duke Surge to 23-Point Comeback
Duke created one of the most memorable comebacks in NCAA history last night as they dug themselves out of a 23-point hole with little over nine minutes left on the clock. The nation's No 2 ranked team faced No 16 Louisville, just days after beating Virginia.
Lousiville extended their lead to 23 points with 9:13 remaining on the game when Duke begun to click into action. Up until this point the Cardinals had played brilliantly and managed to contain Duke's superstars.
Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski inspired his team to the unlikely comeback by telling them that he doesn't "coach losers" and insisting that they would win the game.
Duke closed the game to with a 35-10 run to take the victory 71-69 at a packed Yum Center, they showed resilliance and a belief in each other, and the legendary 'Coach K' that has NBA talent evalulators salivating over their team.
Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett surged forward, isolating defenders and creating mismatches. As the margin between the teams grew slimmer there was a sense of occasion, of the impossible being possible, which ultimately culminated with Cam Reddish's free-throws to seal the win, after a charge call was changed to a block, after review.
Despite being ranked No 2 the Blue Devils are still favored to win the College Championship at +180, ahead of rivals Gonzaga (+750), Virginia (+1000), Michigan (+1200) and Tennessee (+1200). Louisville have slumped are tied thirteenth with bookmakers at a price of +4200 alongisde Auburn, Iowa State, Texas Tech and Wisconsin.
By Sam Farley