In an exciting turn of events at the ACC Women’s Basketball Tournament, Duke University’s women’s basketball team pulled off a thrilling upset against the #6-ranked Notre Dame with a score of 61-56. This unexpected victory sets the stage for a highly anticipated championship showdown against the #7-ranked NC State. The dramatic game took place this past Saturday and the finals are set for Sunday at 1:00 PM ET, where Duke will be aiming for even more glory.
Defense Leads the Charge
Duke’s remarkable win can be largely credited to their tenacious defense, which coach Kara Lawson praised in her post-game comments. The team managed to force Notre Dame into making 16 turnovers, a critical factor that contributed to their success. By applying constant pressure and maintaining their focus, Duke kept Notre Dame at bay and limited their scoring opportunities throughout the game.
Impressive Shooting Performance
Although the game had its moments of tension, Duke showcased their shooting skills well. They managed to achieve a shooting percentage of 40.4%, quite impressive given the intensity of the match. The Blue Devils also excelled at the free throw line, sinking 14 out of 16 attempts. This skill at the charity stripe proved vital in securing the win when every point mattered the most.
Key Players Shine
Offensively, Duke was led by Oluchi Okananwa, who scored 14 points, while Ashlon Jackson contributed 12 points to the effort. On the opposing side, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo stood out with an impressive 23 points, but her efforts weren’t enough to carry her team to victory. Duke’s ability to contain the Irish and limit them to just 20% shooting from beyond the arc was a pivotal element of the game.
What’s Next: The Championship Game
With this surprise victory in hand, Duke now prepares to face NC State in the championship game. Both teams will enter the matchup with their strengths and strategies, but Duke’s confidence from the upset will surely play a role. Fans can tune in to watch this exciting contest live on ESPN on Sunday, where the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Road to the Finals
Duke’s victory against Notre Dame adds another chapter to their impressive performance in the tournament, where teamwork and resilience have defined their journey. They’ve demonstrated that playing tough and believing in each other can lead to great things, no matter the odds. As the two teams gear up for their championship battle, the excitement and anticipation continue to grow, promising a memorable contest for all basketball fans.
Game Details
Here are some quick details about the upcoming championship game:
| Matchup | Date | Time | Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duke vs. NC State | Sunday | 1:00 PM ET | ESPN |
This game will not only determine the ACC champion but also serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication of these young athletes. Duke has climbed to new heights, and now, the championship awaits. Will they continue their winning streak? Stay tuned!
