article image source: wallpapers.com (link)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The new college basketball season tipped off with a powerful statement from the sixth-ranked Duke Blue Devils, who surged past Texas 75-60 in the Dick Vitale Invitational at Spectrum Center on Tuesday night. The win marked Duke’s 26th consecutive victory in a season opener and showcased the balance of experience, energy, and emerging talent that defines this year’s squad.

advertisement

Evans Ignites Duke’s Offense

Sophomore guard Isaiah Evans stole the spotlight early, delivering a career-best 23 points while setting the tone from beyond the arc. Playing just miles from where he starred at North Mecklenburg High School, Evans connected on four first-half three-pointers, helping Duke shake off a slow offensive start. His rhythm from deep transformed the game, fueling a 12-2 Blue Devils run that gave Duke its first real cushion.

“I feel extremely comfortable when I’m here,” Evans said after the win. “I feel all the love and support. When I get out there, I just play—I know I have people behind me.”

YEAH DUKE - Another One ???


Boozer’s Breakout Second Half

If Evans powered Duke’s first-half push, Cameron Boozer took over the second. The highly touted freshman—and son of former Duke star Carlos Boozer—was scoreless in the first half, going 0-for-7 from the field. But after head coach Jon Scheyer challenged him to be tougher, Boozer erupted for 15 points and 13 rebounds, earning a double-double in his collegiate debut.

Boozer’s presence was felt on both ends. He attacked the paint, drew contact to reach the free-throw line 12 times (making nine), and added three steals, two assists, and a block. His energy fueled a 10-0 Duke run to open the second half, flipping a one-point halftime deficit into a commanding lead.

“Coach told me at halftime I played soft,” Boozer admitted. “He was right. I had to change my mentality. My teammates believed in me, and in the second half, we were the tougher team.”

THE WAIT IS OVER - DUKE ?⌛️?


Defense Defines the Blue Devils

While the offensive highlights drew attention, Duke’s defense may have been the night’s real story. The Blue Devils limited Texas to just 32% shooting and held the Longhorns to only 27 points after halftime. They forced 16 turnovers, recorded eight steals, and allowed just two field goals in the final six minutes.

The collective defensive effort was a credit to Duke’s depth and chemistry. All nine players who saw minutes registered at least one assist, demonstrating unselfish play and communication on both ends. The team’s control of the tempo and rebounding battle—especially Boozer’s 13 boards—helped neutralize Texas’ physicality.

Ngongba and Supporting Cast Step Up

Freshman forward Patrick Ngongba II added 10 points and brought crucial energy off the bench. His early contributions, combined with Dame Sarr’s eight points and defensive presence, gave Duke flexibility in lineups during key stretches. The Blue Devils’ bench production underscored the promise of a roster still finding its identity after losing five players to the NBA Draft last season.

Emotional Night Honoring Dick Vitale

Before tipoff, the crowd at Spectrum Center paid tribute to legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale, who has been battling cancer. A heartfelt video message from former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski played on the arena’s videoboard, celebrating Vitale’s legacy. The 86-year-old commentator was visibly emotional as fans gave him a long standing ovation—a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of college basketball and the respect shared across generations.

Coach Scheyer’s Vision and Perspective

For Jon Scheyer, the win was more than just a strong start. It was a glimpse of the potential within his young, evolving roster.

“That’s one way to start off the season,” Scheyer said. “We showed great fight, and there’s a lot we can still clean up. I thought the start of the second half was key—the way we responded showed the character of this group. We have big-time competitors and big-time players.”

With the victory, Scheyer notched his 90th career win as Duke’s head coach. The program also improved to 14-1 all-time at Spectrum Center, extending its winning streak there to 12 games.

Looking Ahead

The Blue Devils will now turn their focus to their home opener on Saturday, November 8, when they host Western Carolina at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Tipoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on The CW.

For Texas, led by new head coach Sean Miller, the loss marked a tough debut but also showcased promise in players like Dailyn Swain and Jordan Pope, who combined for 31 of the team’s 60 points.

Conclusion

Duke’s 75-60 victory over Texas was more than a routine season opener—it was a glimpse into a new era of Blue Devils basketball. With Evans displaying confident leadership, Boozer proving his resilience, and Scheyer guiding a team that balances youth with defensive discipline, Duke signaled that it remains a powerhouse ready to grow throughout the season. The night was both a celebration of legacy—from Krzyzewski’s tribute to Vitale—to the birth of a new chapter led by fresh faces unafraid of the spotlight.

As the Blue Devils head back to Durham, their message is clear: the foundation is strong, and the future looks even brighter.

Sources:

• Duke Athletics, “No. 6 Duke Surges Past Texas, 75-60” — GoDuke.com

• ESPN, “Evans, Boozer help No. 6 Duke overcome slow start and defeat Texas 75-60 in season opener” — ESPN.com

Thank you !