Duke Upsets No. 1 Michigan in Top-3 Matchup

Blue Devils hand Wolverines their first loss of the season

Feb. 22, 2026 at 4:42am

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In a highly anticipated top-3 matchup, the Duke Blue Devils defeated the No. 1 ranked Michigan Wolverines 68-63 in a hard-fought contest. Duke's stifling defense and dominance on the offensive glass proved to be the difference as they handed Michigan its first loss of the season.

Why it matters

This victory over the top-ranked team in the country solidifies Duke's status as an elite program and a legitimate national title contender. The Blue Devils have now won four straight games while holding their opponents under 65 points, showcasing their defensive prowess against one of the best offenses in the country.

The details

Duke jumped out to an early lead, but Michigan battled back to tie the game at 26 late in the first half. The Blue Devils were able to take a 35-33 lead into halftime after converting a last-second free throw. In the second half, Duke's defense clamped down, holding Michigan to just 4-of-19 shooting from three-point range. The Blue Devils also dominated the offensive glass, grabbing 11 offensive rebounds. Despite foul trouble for star forward Cameron Boozer, Duke was able to make the plays down the stretch to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 21, 2026 in Washington, D.C.
  • Duke led 12-11 at the first media timeout.

The players

Cameron Boozer

Duke's star forward who had a clutch three-point shot and a key goaltending call late in the game.

Isaiah Evans

Duke's leading scorer with 15 points, including some key free throws in the final minute to seal the victory.

Yaxel Lendeborg

Michigan's dominant big man who scored 12 points on 5-of-5 shooting in the first half.

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What they’re saying

“Duke's Defense is ridiculous”

— jalendurenenthusiast

“Clutch free throws from Isaiah Evans”

— Mack Hubbard

What’s next

Duke will look to build on this signature win as they continue their quest for a national championship. Michigan, meanwhile, will try to bounce back from its first loss of the season.

The takeaway

This game showcased Duke's ability to win against the top teams in the country, proving they have the defensive intensity and offensive firepower to make a deep NCAA Tournament run. The Blue Devils' victory over the previously undefeated Wolverines solidifies their status as one of the elite programs in college basketball.