After defeating two-seeded Alabama, the Duke Blue Devils are returning to the Final Four for the first time since 2022 and for the first time under third-year head coach Jon Scheyer.

The Duke Blue Devils are headed back to the Final Four for the first time since 2022, and this time it’s under the guidance of third-year head coach Jon Scheyer. A dominating 75-68 victory over the two-seeded Alabama Crimson Tide in the Elite Eight has secured Duke’s spot in college basketball’s biggest stage, igniting excitement across the program and further solidifying Scheyer’s stature as one of the brightest young minds in the game. This remarkable achievement, which marks Duke’s return to the Final Four after a brief absence, is a testament to the resilience, skill, and future of both the Blue Devils’ roster and their coaching staff.

Jon Scheyer’s journey at Duke has been closely watched since he succeeded the legendary Mike Krzyzewski as the program’s head coach in 2022. Scheyer, a former Duke player and longtime assistant coach under Coach K, inherited a program with immense tradition and pressure. Yet, from the outset, Scheyer has demonstrated the qualities necessary to lead such a storied team: poise, tactical acumen, and a relentless commitment to improvement.

In his first two seasons, Scheyer was tasked with bringing together a mix of talented recruits and experienced players. While Duke made it to the NCAA Tournament in each of Scheyer’s first two seasons, the elusive Final Four appeared just out of reach. However, the third time proved to be the charm as Scheyer’s squad, with its blend of young talent and seasoned leadership, finally broke through to reach the Final Four, providing a momentous occasion for the program.

This win over Alabama represents not only a personal triumph for Scheyer but also a statement that his vision for Duke basketball is coming to fruition. The Blue Devils’ blend of defense, discipline, and offensive creativity was on full display in the win over Alabama, showing the distinct impact of Scheyer’s tactical approach.

Before facing Alabama, Duke had already established itself as one of the most formidable teams in the tournament. Their path to the Final Four had included notable victories, but it was this matchup with Alabama, a team brimming with talent, that truly put their skills to the test. Alabama, the tournament’s two-seed and a team widely considered one of the favorites to win it all, came into the game with a high-powered offense and an intimidating defensive presence.

From the very beginning of the game, it was clear that Duke was up for the challenge. They set the tone early, using their stifling defense to limit Alabama’s star players and force the Crimson Tide into difficult shots. While Alabama boasted some of the most dynamic players in the country, it was Duke’s defense that proved to be the difference-maker. Duke’s ability to stay disciplined on defense and contest every shot kept Alabama on the back foot for most of the game.

Offensively, Duke was firing on all cylinders. The Blue Devils’ ability to move the ball, create open shots, and play unselfishly allowed them to find the best possible opportunities. Players like Kyle Filipowski, Jeremy Roach, and Tyrese Proctor rose to the occasion, playing with both aggression and precision. Roach, in particular, was a standout, controlling the game with his leadership and clutch scoring.

As the game wore on, Alabama struggled to find the rhythm that had powered them throughout the tournament. Despite valiant efforts from their star players, including Brandon Miller, the Crimson Tide couldn’t shake Duke’s well-coordinated defense and offensive execution. The final score of 75-68 was a reflection of the Blue Devils’ thorough control of the game. It wasn’t just the victory itself that was impressive, but the manner in which Duke secured it — with focus, poise, and an unwavering belief in their system.

Several players were key to Duke’s triumph over Alabama, each contributing in crucial moments throughout the game.

Kyle Filipowski, the 7-foot freshman, continued to cement his status as one of the most impactful big men in college basketball. His ability to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor was critical in slowing down Alabama’s offense. Filipowski’s rim protection, combined with his rebounding and scoring, was a critical factor in neutralizing the Crimson Tide’s offensive flow.

Jeremy Roach, the senior leader, was instrumental in Duke’s late-game success. Roach’s composure and scoring ability in the final minutes were vital in holding off Alabama’s rally attempt. His leadership on and off the court has been a hallmark of Duke’s tournament run, and in this game, Roach proved why he’s one of the most experienced and reliable guards in college basketball.

Tyrese Proctor, the Australian guard, displayed his versatility and poise in the biggest moments. Proctor’s ability to facilitate Duke’s offense, while also contributing as a scorer, helped balance the Blue Devils’ attack and allowed them to break free when Alabama mounted their push.

Finally, Mark Mitchell, Duke’s versatile forward, played an integral role on defense, helping to guard the perimeter and contribute to the Blue Devils’ fast breaks. His all-around game has been one of the unsung factors in Duke’s success this season, and it was no different in their win over Alabama.

One of the defining features of this Duke team, and particularly in their Elite Eight victory over Alabama, is their defensive intensity. From the opening tip, Duke’s defense was relentless, suffocating Alabama’s shooters and forcing them into tough, contested shots. Duke’s ability to close out on shooters, block shots in the paint, and force turnovers played a key role in disrupting Alabama’s offensive flow.

While the Crimson Tide is known for their high-scoring games and explosive offense, Duke made sure to force them into uncomfortable positions. Alabama shot poorly from beyond the arc, and many of their attempts at the basket were met with resistance from Filipowski and others. This defensive performance underlined Duke’s commitment to playing at a high level on both ends of the floor.

The significance of Duke’s victory over Alabama extends far beyond the scope of just this one game. For the Blue Devils, it represents the culmination of years of hard work and development under Jon Scheyer. The win solidifies the belief that Scheyer is capable of leading Duke back to the top of college basketball, continuing the legacy of excellence established under Coach K.

For the players, this victory serves as a confirmation of their talent and potential. Players like Filipowski, Roach, and Proctor are now firmly on the map as some of the top players in college basketball, and their performances in the tournament have turned heads. Moreover, this win positions Duke as a serious contender for the national championship, and the excitement surrounding the program has reached a fever pitch.

Furthermore, this victory is a significant step for the entire Duke basketball community. After Coach K’s retirement, there was uncertainty surrounding the future of the program. With Scheyer at the helm, Duke has not only maintained its position as one of the top programs in the country but also evolved into a team that is versatile, disciplined, and highly competitive.

Duke’s journey to the Final Four is far from over. With their victory over Alabama, the Blue Devils have earned a place among the nation’s elite teams, and they now have their sights set on a national title. They will face stiff competition in the Final Four, but the way they have played throughout the tournament — particularly in their win over Alabama — has demonstrated that they are ready for any challenge.

Coach Scheyer’s tactical brilliance, coupled with the stellar performances of his players, means that Duke will enter the Final Four with immense confidence and momentum. The road to the championship will be tough, but Duke has already proven that they have the necessary tools to go all the way. Whether it’s their defense, their unselfish ball movement, or their ability to execute in crunch time, the Blue Devils are a force to be reckoned with.

In the end, this victory over Alabama is just one step in what promises to be an unforgettable NCAA Tournament for Duke. Whether they emerge as national champions or fall short, the Blue Devils have already proven that they are back — and they are here to stay.