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The No. 3 Duke Blue Devils are hitting their stride as March Madness approaches, riding a three-game winning streak with dominant margins of victory averaging 25 points of difference. Their only loss of the year, and only one since late November against Clemson, ended a 16-game run that was the longest active streak in the nation-but they've responded in impressive fashion. With just five regular-season games remaining, all eyes are on their February 22 matchup against Illinois at Madison Square Garden in the SentinelOne Classic. While the March 8 showdown with North Carolina looms as the biggest test, their return to the world's most famous arena (Dean Dome) represents a pivotal moment for Cooper Flagg and company.
Duke and Flagg Under the Bright Lights of MSG
Duke has a long history at Madison Square Garden, having played there in 24 of the last 27 seasons, compiling a 41-19 record. Their last visit resulted in a hard-fought 78-70 win over No. 10 Baylor, and head coach Jon Scheyer sees this game as more than just another non-conference battle. Calling it a "wake-up call before March," Scheyer believes the environment will help his young team, especially freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, prepare for the pressure of March. Flagg has exceeded expectations in his freshman season, leading Duke in nearly every major statistical category while averaging over 19 points and seven rebounds per game. Facing Illinois in a high-stakes environment will be another key test in his rapid development.
With Duke currently ranked third in the AP Men's College Basketball Poll behind Auburn and Florida, their trajectory suggests a likely No. 1 seed in the East Region. A strong showing at MSG will only solidify their case as a championship contender. Beyond the team's immediate goals, Flagg's individual dominance has also caught the attention of NBA scouts, with teams like the Wizards, Hornets and Pelicans closely monitoring his progress ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. His performance on such a prestigious stage will continue to shape the conversation about his potential at the next level.
Duke's Road to the Final Four
As the regular season winds down, Duke is positioning itself for another deep tournament run. The experience gained from marquee matchups like this will be invaluable as they prepare for the high-pressure games ahead. With Flagg leading the charge and the team rounding into form, the Blue Devils appear ready to make a serious push in March Madness. The MSG showdown may just be the perfect preview of what's to come when the stakes are even higher.