The Tigers have taken on all comers this season and downed them all. They have beaten No. 2 Houston, No. 5 Iowa State, No. 10 North Carolina, and No. 16 Memphis. The Iowa State game was particularly impressive as they came roaring back in the 2nd half with Johni Broome stealing the ball and then knocking down a jumper to win at the buzzer.
Speaking of Broome, he’s been the best player in the country so far, averaging 20.7 points and 12.9 rebounds per game. Even more impressive, in the three games in Maui, he averaged 21.6 points and 15 rebounds per game against I-State, N Car, and Memphis. This is a Duke squad whose strength in their guards and they really don’t have anyone who can match up with Broome. Khaman Maluach is just a freshman who averages less than 18 minutes per game and doesn’t have the skill set to defend a 6-10 forward who can step out and knock down the three. And at 6-6, Mason Gillis just gives up too much size to be effective. Finally, this is a very young Duke squad that relies heavily on freshmen, while Auburn is loaded with guys who have tons of experience. We’ve seen that experience pay off in spades this season against top competition and we should see it pay off again tonight.