Can the ACC Favorites Keep Their Top Spot All Season?
The Duke Blue Devils have already made a statement early in the season, proving why they were tabbed as ACC favorites. Their recent victories over a shorthanded Kansas squad and a solid Texas team have set the tone for what could be a dominant campaign. The Kansas win, while against a team missing key contributors, still showcased Duke’s ability to impose their will on a national powerhouse. Meanwhile, the triumph over Texas carried even more weight, as the Longhorns are expected to make noise in the Maui Invitational and have the kind of roster depth that can challenge anyone. These wins not only bolster Duke’s resume, but also highlight their ability to adapt to different styles of play, whether grinding out possessions against Kansas or matching Texas’s athleticism and pace. For a team with championship aspirations, stacking quality wins early is critical, and Duke has done just that.
Of course, the centerpiece of Duke’s success has been Cam Boozer, who continues to look every bit like the dominant force and top three projected pick in next year's draft that many predicted. Boozer’s combination of size, skill, and poise has made him nearly unstoppable, and his consistency has given Duke a reliable anchor on both ends of the floor. Yet what makes this team truly dangerous is the supporting cast that has begun to emerge. Isiah Evans has provided scoring bursts and perimeter shooting that stretch defenses, and is proving to the entire country why he was a top pick to have a breakout year, while Pat Ngongba’s interior presence has added toughness and rebounding. Dame Sarr has also impressed with his versatility, showing flashes of why he was also projected to be a lottery pick. Together, these pieces give Duke a balanced attack that doesn’t rely solely on Boozer’s brilliance. The depth and variety of weapons at Jon Scheyer’s disposal make this team difficult to scout and even harder to contain once they find rhythm.
Still, the Blue Devils’ ceiling depends on whether they can unlock the full potential of their roster. Caleb Foster has shown flashes of being a dynamic guard but has yet to consistently put it all together. If he can settle into a confident role, Duke’s backcourt will become far more dangerous. Similarly, Maliq Brown’s athleticism and defensive instincts could give the team another layer of versatility, especially in matchups where energy and hustle are needed. Nikolas Khamenia, meanwhile, has the tools to be a difference-maker but needs to find his footing in Duke’s system. If these three players can elevate their games and complement the already established stars, Duke will transform from a strong contender into a juggernaut capable of running the ACC table and making a deep NCAA Tournament run. The early wins have proven they belong at the top, but sustaining that spot will require continued growth and contributions across the roster. With Boozer leading the charge and a supporting cast ready to step forward, Duke has all the ingredients to keep their crown all season long.
