Duke University defeated St. John’s University 80-75 in a thrilling Sweet 16 matchup of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. The Blue Devils overcame a 10-point deficit, marking their sixth comeback from double figures this season, a feat that underscores their resilience. Isaiah Evans led Duke with 25 points, while Caleb Foster made a notable return from injury, contributing significantly to the victory. Cameron Boozer added a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. The win extended Duke’s winning streak to 14 games, while St. John’s missed a critical chance to tie in the final seconds. Coach Rick Pitino acknowledged that his team’s defensive shortcomings allowed Duke to capitalize on key drives to the basket.
Why It Matters
This victory continues Duke’s historical dominance in NCAA tournaments, particularly against St. John’s, as they have defeated them in all five of their national championship seasons. The Blue Devils’ ability to rally in tough situations highlights their experience and depth, crucial factors in high-stakes tournament play. Additionally, Duke’s current winning streak of 14 games positions them as a formidable contender for the championship, reflecting a strong season overall. The loss for St. John’s, while disappointing, emphasizes the challenges faced by teams competing at this level, especially when defensive execution falters against top-ranked opponents.
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