On the day the Blue Devils fell from No. 4 to No. 6 in the AP Poll, Duke begins the Preseason NIT at Cameron Indoor Stadium against the Bulldogs. Here's a look at who the difference-maker for each team could be tonight.
Duke: guard Quinn Cook
In its first three games, Duke has had no trouble getting significant offensive contributions from a number of players. At times, however, the Blue Devils have struggled defensively. While most of the their defensive struggles have come from the frontcourt, it is essential that the Blue Devils contain freshman point guard, Andrew Rowsey. Quinn Cook, along with Tyler Thornton, will be tasked with guarding the 5-foot-10 Rowsey, who has averaged 38.3 minutes per game and 19.7 points per game. Offensively, Cook must look to advance the ball in transition so that Duke does not allow UNC-Asheville to exploit its size advantage in half court sets.
UNC-Asheville: center D.J. Cunningham
Through the Bulldogs' first three games, D.J. Cunningham has averaged a double-double with 12.7 points per game and 10.7 rebounds per game. At 6-foot-10, 240 pounds, Cunningham should be able to use his size and physicality to score inside and dominate on the glass. He has the ability to significantly impact the game as his defensive rebounding will limit Duke’s offensive opportunities and his offensive rebounding will provide UNC-Asheville with second chances. The Blue Devils have struggled with opposing big men this season, so it will be incumbent upon Amile Jefferson, Josh Hairston and Marshall Plumlee to keep Cunningham off of the glass.
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