Duke Gets to Final, Gets Revenge on Tech 77 – 63

Duke came into the ACC semifinals against Va Tech with a stoic confidence. Not that they were looking past Tech but they were on a mission. Va Tech played Duke pretty close most of the game but never truly threatened. Duke did get into some foul trouble which caused some offense for defense substitutions but Duke handled it well.

Nolan Smith once again had a killer game with 27 points, 6 assists to 3 turnovers. He seemed to score from all over the floor as is his trademark and seemed to really “get” when to pass and when to shoot. I think in a few games where Duke has struggled either Smith has been singularly minded or guys were just standing around watching the Nolan show. This game saw everyone on offense getting touches on the offensive end creating space to move. Duke primarily played this game in the half-court, perhaps trying to preserve tired legs. Getting deep in the shot clock and driving and kicking.

Unfortunately as has been the case with Virginia Tech there is an undercurrent of unsportsmanlike conduct. Mostly by Jeff Allen who after 4 years is still a punk, who despite being a talented player can’t seem to rise above his own BS. It’s a wonder he didn’t hurt someone. Allen recklessly threw elbows and at one point the ball into Andre Dawkins face.

Some keys to this game whether it was a conscious choice or Va Tech defense, it was good to see Duke jack up less 3 point shots. They aren’t falling as easily as they did earlier in the season so it is good to see Duke force the issue inside a little more. I suspect against Carolina we should see a lot less jumpers. Also look to Duke to go inside to Kyle Singler against Harrison Barnes.