Duke Falls to Kentucky in Champions Classic Thriller
ATLANTA — Jon Scheyer, head coach of Duke, expressed confidence in his strategy during the Champions Classic against Kentucky, despite the Blue Devils falling 77-72. With just 26.5 seconds left and the score tied, Scheyer called for a timeout to set up a decisive play, emphasizing the importance of star freshman Cooper Flagg. “The ball in his hands,” Scheyer stated, pointing out Flagg, a talented 17-year-old who was in just his third college game.
In the tension of the late game, Scheyer put the ball in Flagg’s hands and urged him to create a scoring opportunity. Flagg had already registered a game-high 26 points, including Duke’s final seven points, solidifying his prominence in the match. Duke executed a series of ghost screens to clear the path for Flagg, allowing him to take a shot opportunity against Kentucky’s defense.
Critical Late-Game Possessions
Previously successful with a similar strategy, Flagg had tied the game at 72 with a challenging shot over Kentucky’s Andrew Carr. However, in a critical moment, Kentucky adapted their defense. Otega Oweh anticipated Flagg’s movements, intercepting the ball during his attempt to post up, leading to free throws that solidified Kentucky’s lead.
After the game, Scheyer admitted he could have positioned Flagg differently for better scoring opportunities, possibly using a ball screen with junior guard Tyrese Proctor. “I trust [Flagg’s] instincts,” Scheyer acknowledged, “but he’s got to touch it and trust that good things are going to happen.” Unfortunately for the Blue Devils, Flagg experienced turnovers at decisive junctures that contributed to their loss, yet it would be misleading to place the blame solely on him.
Young Talent and Team Experience
In his debut on national television, Flagg not only scored 26 points but also contributed 12 rebounds, two assists, and two blocks. However, the youth of both Flagg and the rest of the Duke team was evident in the second half. Duke had dominated in the paint with 28 points to Kentucky’s six in the first half, but the tables turned after halftime, with Kentucky outscoring Duke in multiple categories.
“They showed incredible maturity,” Scheyer reflected on the experience displayed by Kentucky, the nation’s fifth-oldest team. Flagg and other freshmen have much to learn from this experience, but their growth is essential for Duke’s long-term success.
Looking Ahead for Duke
Despite the defeat, Scheyer remains optimistic about the team’s future, explaining that he crafted this challenging nonconference schedule to foster improvement rather than seek an undefeated record. Duke will face more tough opponents, including Arizona and Kansas, throughout the season. “We got a long season to go,” Scheyer said. “I feel more optimistic tonight, losing, than I did even before.”
Flagg, eager for redemption, stated, “Coach has trust in me to go and make a play. I’m glad he had that trust in me, to put the ball in my hands.” His resolve signifies the potential for growth, as he looks forward to seizing future game-winning opportunities.
Photo by Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
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