In a thrilling matchup, the Duke Blue Devils staged an impressive comeback to defeat the Arkansas Razorbacks, 80-71, during the CBS Sports Thanksgiving Classic at the United Center. The #4 ranked Blue Devils showcased their skill and determination, particularly in the second half of the game.
Duke’s Stellar Performance
Duke’s star freshman Cameron Boozer proved pivotal in the victory, scoring a remarkable 35 points while also grabbing nine rebounds. Fellow teammates Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba contributed with 15 and 11 points, respectively.
Game Highlights
- Cameron Boozer led all scorers with 35 points.
- Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba added 15 and 11 points.
- Darius Acuff Jr. was Arkansas’s top performer with 21 points and five assists.
- Trevon Brazile achieved a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.
The game featured a series of momentum shifts. Arkansas initially took control, building a lead of 13 points before the end of the first half. However, they closed the first half strong with a 7-0 run, ending the period at 41-35 in favor of Duke.
Arkansas Rally
After halftime, Arkansas surged with a 22-6 run, including a significant 8-0 streak to briefly lead the game 50-47. The Razorbacks continued to pressure Duke, going up by as many as seven points, thanks to a three-pointer from Meleek Thomas.
As the clock wound down, Duke regained their composure. With the score tied at 64, the Blue Devils scored crucial points that allowed them to secure a lead they would not relinquish. They finished the game strong, outscoring Arkansas 10-2 in the final moments.
Upcoming Challenges
After this intense defeat, Arkansas (3-3) will return to their home court at Bud Walton Arena. They will face the sixth-ranked Louisville Cardinals as part of the ACC/SEC Challenge, set for 6 PM, with the game broadcasted on ESPN.
Historical Context
This game marked the third time Arkansas faced Duke in the United Center, where they are now 0-3 lifetime. Historically, the two teams have clashed six times, primarily on neutral courts, including high-stakes moments like the NCAA Sweet 16 and a National Championship game in 1994. In their last encounter during the ACC/SEC Challenge in 2023, Arkansas emerged victorious, defeating Duke 80-75.
The impact of this game extends beyond the scoreboard, showcasing both teams’ resilience and competitive spirits. As the season continues, both teams will look to build on their performances, eager to climb in the rankings and secure their places in postseason play.
