Source: FOX News
Summary
Duke Blue Devils avoided an upset by Siena Saints with a 71-65 victory in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, rallying late after trailing 43-32 at halftime. Duke outscored Siena 39-22 in the second half, with Isaiah Evans’ layup giving the Blue Devils their first lead since early in the first half. Cam Boozer led the Blue Devils with 22 points and 13 rebounds, while Cayden Boozer finished with 19 points.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Duke came back from a halftime deficit, and it’s not the first time we’ve seen that this tournament. The Blue Devils’ Boozer brothers, Cam and Cayden, took over in the second half, and their efforts paid off. This one felt recognizable early, and it was only a matter of time before Duke took control.
Duke’s slow start in the first half was a concern, but they adjusted and took advantage of Siena’s fatigue towards the end. The Saints’ decision to use only five starters throughout the game may have contributed to their lack of energy in the second half.
The result wasn’t surprising by the end, given Duke’s talent and experience. But Siena gave it their all, and their effort was admirable, even if it wasn’t enough to pull off the upset.
This one was a tale of two halves, with Duke dominating the second half to avoid a major upset.
Author: Evan Null
