North Carolina (13-9) at Duke (18-2)
- When: Feb 1 2025, 5:30 PM
- Where: Cameron Indoor Stadium, Durham, NC, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Preview
Duke and North Carolina renew their storied rivalry Saturday night in Durham, with the No. 2 Blue Devils heavily favored at -13.5 and the total set at 149.0. The Tar Heels, desperate for a resume-boosting win, will try to upset a Duke squad riding a 14-game win streak and sitting atop the ACC standings at 10-0.
Duke (18-2) has taken care of business in recent matchups, securing wins over Wake Forest and NC State. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg continues to prove why he’s projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft, averaging 19.9 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His last five outings have been even more dominant, posting 27.0 PPG while improving his playmaking. Flagg’s second-half explosion against NC State (23 of his 28 points) showed his ability to take over games, a trait that will be key against a scrappy North Carolina team.
The Tar Heels (13-9, 6-4 ACC) are coming off a 73-65 road loss to Pitt, where turnovers and poor free-throw shooting negated a strong rebounding effort. North Carolina lacks consistency beyond the arc, with only Ian Jackson shooting above 30% from deep, which could be a major issue against Duke’s elite defense. The Blue Devils rank top five nationally in scoring defense (59.6 PPG) and field-goal percentage defense (37.2%). Their interior presence is dominant, leading the nation in two-point defense at 41.0%, which could stifle North Carolina’s inside scoring attack.
The Tar Heels won both meetings last season, but this Duke squad is far more polished, deeper, and more dominant on both ends of the floor. Expect Flagg and company to control the pace, lock down defensively, and capitalize on North Carolina’s weaknesses. Duke has covered in six of its last seven games, while the Tar Heels have struggled against top-tier competition. With Duke’s defense setting the tone and North Carolina’s offensive struggles on the perimeter, this game is primed to stay under the total.
Prediction: Duke -13.5, Under 149.
Final Score: Duke 80, North Carolina 64.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
