Duke Must Defend Cleanly Against Michigan's Frontcourt

The No. 3 Blue Devils face a tough test against the No. 1 Wolverines' imposing big men.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:56am

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The No. 3-ranked Duke Blue Devils will face off against No. 1 Michigan on Saturday in a highly anticipated matchup. Duke has dealt with minimal issues this season, but the team's lack of depth at center could be a problem against Michigan's talented frontcourt of Morez Johnson, Yaxel Lendeborg, and Aday Mara. Duke sophomore center Patrick Ngongba is crucial to the team's defense, and his ability to stay on the floor will be key against the Wolverines.

Why it matters

This game could be a preview of the national championship, and Duke's ability to defend Michigan's size down low will be a major factor. The Blue Devils struggled when Ngongba fouled out against North Carolina, and they can't afford a similar situation against the Wolverines.

The details

Duke has a 24-2 record this season and is No. 2 in the NCAA NET Rankings, but the team's lack of depth at center could be exposed against Michigan. Ngongba is the only true five on the roster at 6'11", and when he fouled out against North Carolina, the Tar Heels were able to outscore Duke 16-6 in the final minutes. The Wolverines have an imposing frontcourt with 6'9" Morez Johnson, 6'9" Yaxel Lendeborg, and 7'3" Aday Mara, and Duke desperately needs Ngongba to stay on the floor to match up with them.

  • The Duke-Michigan game is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 6:30 pm ET.
  • When Ngongba fouled out against North Carolina, the Tar Heels were able to outscore Duke 16-6 in the final minutes.

The players

Patrick Ngongba

Duke's 6'11" sophomore center, who is the team's only true five and a crucial part of their defense.

Morez Johnson

Michigan's 6'9" forward, part of the Wolverines' imposing frontcourt.

Yaxel Lendeborg

Michigan's 6'9" forward, part of the Wolverines' imposing frontcourt.

Aday Mara

Michigan's 7'3" center, part of the Wolverines' imposing frontcourt.

Jon Scheyer

Duke's head coach, who will need to find a way to defend Michigan's size down low.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game against Michigan will test Duke's ability to defend against a talented and imposing frontcourt, and the Blue Devils' success could hinge on Patrick Ngongba's ability to stay on the floor and anchor their defense in the paint.