The atmosphere at Capital One Arena was electric as No. 3 Duke reminded the college basketball world that they are never “underdogs,” regardless of the ranking. In a gritty 68-63 victory over top-ranked Michigan, the Blue Devils relied on defensive discipline and superstar poise to improve to 25-2.

Here are the four biggest takeaways from Duke’s statement win:

1. Cameron Boozer is the Ultimate Engine

While he fell just short of a triple-double, Boozer’s impact was felt in every statistical category. Finishing with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, he was responsible for over half of Duke’s total points (36 of 68) through scoring or facilitating. Most importantly, he took over when the lights were brightest, scoring seven of Duke’s final nine points to slam the door on a Michigan comeback.

2. A Masterclass in Defensive Suffocation

Michigan entered the game as one of the most efficient offenses in the country, shooting 51% on the season. Duke completely dismantled that rhythm. The Blue Devils held the Wolverines to:

• Only eight field goals in the entire second half.

• A dismal 24% (6-of-25) from beyond the arc.

• Their lowest point total of the entire season.

By taking away the three-point line and dominating the glass (41-28 rebounding advantage), Duke forced Michigan into a physical half-court grind they weren’t prepared to win.

3. Foul Trouble Altered the Geometry

The game took a massive shift due to the absence of Michigan’s big man, Aday Mara. Mara was a +4 in his 22 minutes on the floor, but early foul trouble forced him to the bench for a significant portion of the first half. Duke took full advantage of Michigan’s lack of interior depth during those stretches. Conversely, Duke’s Patrick Ngongba II (11 points, 6 boards) stayed disciplined and provided the play of the game—a clutch offensive rebound in the final minute that allowed Isaiah Evans to seal the win at the free-throw line.

4. Duke Thrives Under the “Giant Killer” Label

History repeats itself. Duke has now won six consecutive games against No. 1 ranked teams when they themselves are ranked in the top five. This program doesn’t just compete in high-stakes games; they expect to win them. With four players scoring in double digits (Boozer, Evans, Foster, and Ngongba II), the Blue Devils showed they have the depth and the mental toughness required for a deep March run.

Michigan is elite, but Duke proved they have an extra gear defensively. If Cameron Boozer continues to play like a National Player of the Year candidate while the defense holds opponents to sub-30% shooting halves, the Blue Devils might just be the new favorites for the top seed in the tournament.