After each Duke men's basketball game this season, check back here for the Player of the Game and more. The Blue Devils blew out Army by a score of 100-58, and the Blue Zone breaks down the game:
One player: Cooper Flagg
It was another standout performance for freshman phenom Cooper Flagg, who helped No. 7 Duke with 13 points on 5-for-10 shooting, connecting on two of his four attempts from beyond the arc. Flagg’s impact extended beyond scoring, as he grabbed 11 rebounds, including two on the offensive glass, providing his team with crucial second-chance opportunities. He also recorded three blocks, solidifying the defense and limiting Army's scoring chances inside in the blowout victory.
His all-around game was highlighted by a first-half double-double and his stat sheet could have filled up even more in the second half, but leg cramps and a large lead kept him out the game. Flagg’s consistent energy, scoring and defense have been crucial for Duke this season. As the Blue Devils face No. 23 Kentucky next, his continued progression will be key. Flagg’s leadership and versatility will be essential for Duke to succeed against a tough opponent hungry for their first ranked win under new head coach Mark Pope. -Dean Harder
One word: Rebounding
Coming into the game, a glaring statistic was the difference in height between the two teams. Army’s tallest player in its starting lineup was 6-foot-8 forward AJ Allenspach compared to 7-foot-2 center Khaman Maluach. This disparity was consistent across all positions, including the Black Knights’ point guard Jalen Rucker who is 5-foot-10. The Blue Devils were able to utilize this difference to its advantage. Duke had 50 rebounds compared to Army’s 32. The difference in defensive rebounds was gaping as the Blue Devils had 11 more than the Black Knights. Although much of this rebounding can be attributed to the physicality of Duke, its effort was also unmatched with players boxing out, and a big hustle play from junior Maliq Brown who dove into the stands trying to save a ball. The Blue Devils also out-rebounded Maine, in a game where they also secured a large win. As Duke faces ranked opponents such as the Wildcats, securing boards will only get even more important. -Cayden Tu
One stat: 6 double-digit scorers
It is not often even in blowout games that more than a few players record double-digit scoring figures. However, due to Duke’s well-balanced roster that utilizes all of its talented weapons, six players including the entire starting lineup and transfer guard Sion James hit this mark. James has quickly become an important player off the bench for head coach Jon Scheyer, averaging double figures for the Blue Devils throughout their first two competitions this season. -Tu
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