Blue Devils Depth Too Much for Jayhawks at Champions Classic

The fifth-ranked Duke Blue Devils showcased their depth and poise Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden, the nation’s premier arena, in a commanding performance against the Kansas Jayhawks at the annual Champions Classic.

Too dominant and too deep, Duke repeatedly attacked the interior, taking advantage of a shorthanded Kansas squad playing without freshman sensation Darryn Peterson, who missed his third straight game with a hamstring injury.

Projected lottery pick Cameron Boozer set the tone early, finishing with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists against the Jayhawks’ frontline. Kansas was led by Trey White, who scored 23 points.

A decisive 21–7 run to close the first half gave the Blue Devils the separation they needed heading into the break.

photo courtesy of Duke athletics

Boozer also became the first ACC player since March 2004 to record at least 100 points, 50 rebounds, and 20 assists over a five-game span—a feat last accomplished by Boston College’s Craig Smith.

Floor general Cayden Boozer delivered pivotal minutes down the stretch, orchestrating a personal 7–0 run that helped maintain Duke’s lead late in the second half.

Other Duke contributors in double figures included Patrick Ngongba with 13 points and sharpshooter Isaiah Evans with 16.

photo courtesy of Duke Athletics

The Blue Devils’ length and defensive intensity sealed the win, as they did not allow a single field goal in the final five minutes.

Head coach Jon Scheyer secured his 94th career victory in Duke’s 78–66 triumph.

Duke now returns home for a two-games-in-three-days “Brotherhood” stretch, hosting Niagara and Howard before heading into the holiday break.