Duke Runs Past MD 77 – 56

This game was never much of a match after MD led 6-5. Duke ran away with this game on the strength of rebounding, defense and efficient offense, and on the backs of Jon Scheyer and Brian Zoubek. Zoubek had a monster game that included 16 points and 17 rebounds. He was everywhere not only on the offensive side of the ball but on defense as well, taking charges, blocking shots, and being completely disruptive to the MD offense. It’s easy to see why Jon Scheyer says that Zoubek is his favorite Dukie to play with. Underrated as a passer this was a game for the senior that we have hoped he would have. Definitely the most important player on the floor today.

Not to be overlooked the effort put in by Lance Thomas on a severely bruised knee, Lance played great defense, scored 4 points, 2 assist and had 3 rebounds. A lot of what Lance brought to the game cannot be measured in stats, overall a good effort on a gimpy leg.

Jon Scheyer, Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith: while Scheyer handled most of the scoring load in this game hitting 6 of 12 shots including 3 triples and scoring 22 points. Scheyer had several gutsy drives to the basket putting pressure on the interior of the MD defense, a very crafty effort put in by the senior in this game. The motion offense that Duke is using as of late is the exact right fit for its pieces, guards coming open off of curls (including Singler) and Nolan being able to create off the dribble. It’s keeping everyone involved and creates creases and lanes for passes.

More breakdown in a bit including more on where this win situates Duke in the race for the ACC…