Duke exacted a measure of revenge in tonight’s regular season finale against North Carolina.
It wasn’t quite as sweet as UNC ending Coach K’s career last season, but Duke’s 62-57 win over its arch-rival tonight might have been the final blow to the Tar Heels’ NCAA Tournament hopes.
Blue Devils freshman Kyle Filipowski led the way with 22 points and 13 rebounds as Duke moved to 23-8 on the year and 14-6 in ACC play. At 19-12 overall and 11-9 in conference, UNC’s bubble might be burst.
“The preseason No. 1 Tar Heels will be on the outside looking in entering the ACC Tournament,” said ESPN’s Jeff Borzello. “1-9 in Quad 1 games, 7-12 vs. Quads 1 + 2. Only two wins over surefire NCAA tournament teams: Virginia, NC State.”
“Them boys not gon make tha tournament,” said former Duke star Paolo Banchero, to which ex-NBA head coach and former UNC star George Karl responded by reminding the Orlando Magic rookie about last year’s Final Four result.
“UNC is now 1-9 vs Q1 opponents. Other than metrics alone, there is no argument for the Tar Heels to be in the field,” added bracketologist Brad Wachtel.
“UNC now, in all likelihood, needs to win the ACC Tournament to make the NCAA Tournament,” chimed in Brendan Marks of The Athletic.
With tonight’s win and Pitt’s loss to Miami, Duke will be the No. 4 seed and have a double-bye in the upcoming ACC Tournament.
Meanwhile, UNC will be the No. 7 seed.