Commentary

Insider Intel: Duke's outside chances

Duke wins games on the perimeter, but Nova's backcourt could take that edge away

Originally Published: March 21, 2009
By Jon Pessah | ESPN Insider

It used to be that making the Sweet 16 was no reason to celebrate at Duke. But after a three-year absence from the tournament's second weekend, the Blue Devils are happy (and relieved) to slip past Texas and into the third round.

This Duke team lives and dies on the perimeter, and Saturday night's game was a lot of both. The Blue Devils love to apply pressure on the ball; it's at the heart of their success. Their turnover percentage is 23.5 -- eighth-best among tournament teams. They entered the game against the Longhorns 24-1 when they force turnovers in 20 percent of their opponent's possessions, but just 5-5 when they don't.


To continue reading this article you must be an Insider

SPONSORED HEADLINES

MORE MEN'S COLLEGE BASKETBALL HEADLINES

MOST SENT STORIES ON ESPN.COM