Tyrese Proctor lit up the court with an outstanding performance, leading top-seeded Duke to a dominant 89-66 victory over Baylor in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Proctor, with a career-high seven 3-pointers and 25 points, showcased his scoring ability to propel the Blue Devils into the Sweet 16.
Freshman standout Cooper Flagg contributed 18 points, nine rebounds, and six assists for Duke (33-3), who displayed resilience and strength in the face of a tough opponent. The Blue Devils, led by coach Jon Scheyer, demonstrated a killer instinct and connectivity that paved the way for a comfortable win.
Duke’s next challenge in the Sweet 16 will be against either Oregon or Arizona on Thursday in Newark, New Jersey. Proctor, a junior, attributed his stellar performance to diligent preparation and self-belief, bouncing back from a rough start in the ACC Tournament.
The Blue Devils set a program record by shooting 64.4% from the field, draining 12 3-pointers while committing just six turnovers. Baylor coach Scott Drew acknowledged Duke’s all-around strength, noting their size, length, and skill as key factors in the game.
While Baylor’s V.J. Edgecombe scored 16 points for the Bears (20-15), Duke took control before halftime with a 24-6 run, stifling Baylor’s offensive rebounding efforts. Despite Baylor’s advantage on the offensive glass, Duke maintained a double-digit lead throughout the game.
Duke’s victory was especially significant as they played close to their Durham campus, overcoming past struggles at the Lenovo Center. The win marked a successful return for Flagg, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury.
Guard Jeremy Roach faced his former team in a reunion game, contributing seven points and three rebounds. The Blue Devils’ strong performance showcased their potential as they advance to the Sweet 16 with confidence.
During a tense moment in the game, Baylor’s backup center Marino Dubravcic was assessed a flagrant-1 foul for wrapping his arm around Duke’s Patrick Ngongba and bringing him down to the floor in a heap. Standing back up, the 6-foot-10 Dubravcic exchanged words with the 6-9 Flagg as they confronted referee Brian O’Connell.
