Babcock Hoops' scouting team covers extensive ground, with scouts strategically positioned across various regions to evaluate NBA prospects nationwide and beyond. Our talent evaluators attend specific matchups in person, developing these reports to establish an initial baseline on players or provide an updated assessment of their development. Unlike comprehensive scouting profiles, these evaluations focus exclusively on a player’s performance in a single game, emphasizing key takeaways and data points gathered from live scouting observations.
Final Score:
Duke 97 – Miami 60
Location:
Coral Gables, FL
Game Summary
A packed Watsco Center crowd witnessed a dominant performance from the No. 2 ranked Blue Devils as Duke dismantled Miami from start to finish. Duke raced out to a commanding 15-2 lead and never allowed the Hurricanes to gain momentum. The Blue Devils’ balanced attack featured four players in double figures—Kon Knueppel, Cooper Flagg, Isaiah Evans, and Caleb Foster—while their suffocating defense forced 20 Miami turnovers. Duke's efficiency was exceptional, shooting 56% from the field, 60% from three, and 90% from the free-throw line.
Without their leading scorer, Matthew Cleveland, Miami relied on Jalil Bethea and Lynn Kidd, but they were overwhelmed by Duke’s depth and shooting prowess. The Blue Devils are peaking at the right time as March approaches, solidifying themselves as a title contender.
Key Prospects
Cooper Flagg
Duke | Forward | 6’9” | 205 lbs | Freshman
Flagg showcased his all-around game, scoring or assisting on Duke’s first 10 points and setting the tone early. His jumper looked more fluid and consistent, correcting a slight hitch in his release. Defensively, Flagg played aggressively, testing his recovery ability by sometimes overcommitting but using his length to disrupt Miami’s offense. His presence altered Miami’s shot selection and decision-making, highlighting his elite defensive instincts.
Kon Knueppel
Duke | Guard/Forward | 6'7” | 217 lbs | Freshman
Knueppel’s efficiency was on full display, as he quietly led Duke in scoring. His elite shot selection and movement allowed him to operate within the flow of the game, often finding himself open for high-percentage looks. He also drew contact well and converted at the free-throw line. Defensively, he continues to improve and has the tools to develop into a reliable two-way player.
Khaman Maluach
Duke | Center | 7'2” | 250 lbs | Freshman
Maluach was a force in limited minutes, making a defensive impact early with two blocks and a steal. His ability to rotate and protect the rim anchored Duke’s defense. He displayed more of his offensive repertoire in the second half, including a highlight dunk off a Cooper Flagg assist. His defensive positioning and ability to complement Duke’s stars make him valuable.
Isaiah Evans
Duke | Guard/Forward | 6'6” | 175 lbs | Freshman
Evans was lights-out from deep, hitting 5-of-8 three-pointers. His quick release and confidence as a shooter make him a serious offensive weapon. If he enters the draft, he could be among the most underrated prospects, given his ability to score efficiently at all three levels while playing within a system.
Tyrese Proctor
Duke | Guard | 6'6” | 183 lbs | Junior
Proctor contributed in limited minutes, making plays on both ends. Though he shot just 40% from the field, his passing and defensive awareness provided stability. With Evans playing at a high level, Duke leaned on the hot hand while Proctor played a complementary role.
Jalil Bethea
Miami | Guard | 6'5” | 190 lbs | Freshman
With Matthew Cleveland out, Bethea carried much of the scoring burden but struggled with consistency. He showed flashes of offensive brilliance, hitting back-to-back threes to cut the deficit to eight points in the first half. However, Duke’s defensive pressure rattled him, leading to costly turnovers that halted any Miami comeback attempt.
Final Thoughts
Duke’s dominance was evident from the opening tip, as their balanced attack, defensive intensity, and elite shooting overwhelmed Miami. Cooper Flagg’s all-around brilliance, Kon Knueppel’s efficiency, and Isaiah Evans’ sharpshooting fueled the blowout win. Miami’s effort was hampered by turnovers and the absence of Matthew Cleveland, as Jalil Bethea struggled to carry the offensive load alone. The Blue Devils continue to round into form at the perfect time, solidifying themselves as a championship contender with March approaching.