Duke Wins ACC Tournament Championship in Thriller Over Virginia

Blue Devils clinch title with late-game heroics from star player Cameron Boozer.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a thrilling finish, the Duke Blue Devils defeated the Virginia Cavaliers to win the ACC Tournament championship. Despite a slow start, Duke star player Cameron Boozer hit the game-winning shot in the final seconds to secure the victory for his team.

Why it matters

The ACC Tournament is one of the most prestigious college basketball events, and this championship win solidifies Duke's status as a top program in the country. The dramatic finish also highlights the talent and competitiveness of the ACC, which is home to some of the best teams and players in the NCAA.

The details

With the game tied 72-72 and 27.4 seconds remaining, Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski called a timeout and drew up a play for his star player Cameron Boozer. Boozer, who had struggled for much of the game, calmly drained the game-winning jumper to give Duke the 74-72 victory over Virginia.

  • The ACC Tournament championship game was played on March 15, 2026.

The players

Cameron Boozer

A star player for the Duke Blue Devils who hit the game-winning shot in the final seconds to clinch the ACC Tournament championship.

Mike Krzyzewski

The head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, who is considered one of the best college basketball coaches in the country.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That was one of the gutsiest performances I've seen from a young player in a championship game. Cameron stepped up when his team needed him most.”

— Mike Krzyzewski, Head Coach, Duke Blue Devils (ESPN)

What’s next

Duke will now await their seeding and matchup for the NCAA Tournament, where they will look to win their 6th national championship.

The takeaway

Duke's thrilling victory in the ACC Tournament final showcases the program's continued excellence and the talent of their young star player Cameron Boozer, who delivered in the clutch to lead his team to the championship.