When the Blue Devils take the court against Michigan State on Saturday evening, they will be sporting the best one-two guard punch that remains in the NCAA Tournament. As usual, Duke’s talent doesn’t stop there.
Of course, they’ll also throw freshman phenom Jahlil Okafor at the Spartans. And wing-master Justise Winslow. And one of the greatest basketball minds in history, Mike Krzyzewski.
So, what we’re actually saying here is, good luck Sparty.
Duke is just as talented as Kentucky, despite the Wildcats being undefeated on the season. Duke is just as well coached, and just as hungry for what awaits them in Indianapolis.
So, why have so few people been ready to jump on their bandwagon?
It started with their defense, which was ranked No. 57 in KenPom entering the tournament, but has risen all the way to No. 18 nationally with their recent performances. The narrative that Duke can’t guard is officially out-dated, yet some haven’t fully accepted that.
They might want to, like, now.
This Blue Devils defense turned around with the play of senior guard Quinn Cook. He hounds opposing guards on the perimeter, most recently Kevin Pangos of Gonzaga. On the other end, Cook drills it from deep and can create for himself in the lane, finishing with a soft, sweet floater. He’s a veteran, and he’s the leader of this team.
When Duke marches past Michigan State and on towards a date Monday night with either Wisconsin or Kentucky, Cook’s experience will be invaluable. When the Blue Devils hoist the national title trophy, and the streets of Durham are engulfed in madness, Cook’s experience will have truly paid off.
