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Duke Rallies to Defeat Florida State 80-79 in ACC Tournament
Evans scores career-high 32 points to lead Blue Devils' comeback
Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:22am
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No. 1-seed Duke overcame an eight-point second-half deficit to defeat No. 8-seed Florida State, 80-79, in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals. Isaiah Evans led all scorers with a career-high 32 points, including a career-best seven three-pointers, to fuel the Blue Devils' 19-2 scoring run after they trailed 59-51 with 13 minutes remaining. Cameron Boozer added 23 points and 10 rebounds for Duke, which collected a season-high 22 offensive rebounds.
Why it matters
Duke's ability to rally from a late deficit and secure the victory demonstrates the team's resilience and capacity to perform under pressure, qualities that will be crucial as they continue their pursuit of the ACC Tournament title and prepare for a potential NCAA Tournament run.
The details
Duke opened the scoring with a floater from Cayden Boozer, but Florida State responded with a three-pointer. Evans answered with a triple of his own, giving Duke an early 7-3 lead. Florida State later went on a 10-0 run to take a 15-11 lead. Evans continued to score, reaching double figures with 11 points, and Duke regained the lead at 18-17. Evans finished the first half with 22 points, including five three-pointers, but Florida State led 44-43 at halftime. Florida State extended their lead to eight points early in the second half, 59-51, before Duke began its comeback. Boozer and Evans combined to cut the deficit to one point, 59-58, and a steal and layup by Maliq Brown put Duke back in front. A 12-0 run extended their lead to 69-61, and Duke held on for the 80-79 victory.
- The game was played on Thursday, March 12.
- Duke trailed Florida State 59-51 with 13 minutes remaining in the second half.
The players
Isaiah Evans
Led Duke with a career-high 32 points, including a career-best seven three-pointers.
Cameron Boozer
Added 23 points and 10 rebounds for Duke, marking his 18th double-double of the season and 11th with at least 20 points.
Maliq Brown
Secured 12 total rebounds, matching his career high, and Duke collected a season-high 22 offensive rebounds.
Cayden Boozer
Opened the scoring with a floater for Duke and made a key layup late in the game to keep the Blue Devils ahead.
What’s next
With the win, Duke advances to the semifinals of the ACC Tournament, where they will face the winner of the quarterfinal matchup between North Carolina and Virginia Tech.
The takeaway
Duke's comeback victory showcases the team's mental toughness and ability to make crucial plays when it matters most, traits that will serve them well as they continue their pursuit of conference and national championships.
