North Carolina State guard Markell Johnson (11) puts up a shot in front of Duke guard Tre Jones on Wednesday during the Wolfpack’s 88-66 victory over the No. 6 Blue Devils in Raleigh, N.C. (AP/Gerry Broome)
Raleigh, NC – NC State entered Wednesday night on the bubble, and while this does not cement their place in the tournament, it gives them a huge boost. The final score of 88-66 was an exact replica of how the game went, as Duke never showed any promise in competing, minus a four minute stretch in the second half. The Wolfpack were led by star guard Markell Johnson who had 28 points, guard Devon Daniels who chipped 25 points himself, and forward DJ Funderburk who added in 21 points and 9 rebounds along with 3 steals.
Speaking after the game on what went wrong for the #6 Blue Devils, Coach K said, “NC State was terrific, it was a game they needed and they played as they needed it. It was our worst game, but they made us look that way. They were the hungrier team and it showed up right from the beginning.” Coach K’s point was obvious from the get-go as Duke never looked in rhythm.
NC State still has a tricky road ahead of them, including Florida State at home, at North Carolina, and at in Cameron against this same Blue Devils team. Duke will look to get back on track versus Virginia Tech this Saturday.
Bracketology Effect: Duke sticks as a two seed for now, in Greensboro none the less but moves from the East Region to the South Region. NC State shoots up to a play in-game, where a day before they were projected to be out.
Betting Effect: Covered NCST +5.5, Over 151.5