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Duke Rallies to Repeat as ACC Champions
Blue Devils defeat Louisville 70-65 in overtime thriller
Published on Mar. 8, 2026
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The Duke Blue Devils rallied from a late deficit to force overtime and then outscored Louisville 10-5 in the extra period to claim their second straight ACC Championship with a 70-65 victory.
Why it matters
Duke's comeback win over Louisville caps off an impressive season for the Blue Devils, who have now won back-to-back ACC titles under head coach Kara Lawson. This victory solidifies Duke's status as one of the top women's basketball programs in the country and sets them up for a strong NCAA Tournament run.
The details
Louisville was in control for much of the game, leading 55-51 with 4:26 remaining in regulation. But Duke fought back, tying the game on a Delaney Thomas layup with just 4 seconds left to force overtime. In the extra period, the Blue Devils outscored the Cardinals 10-5 to secure the championship victory. Thomas and Taina Mair, the tournament MVP, each scored 19 points to lead Duke.
- The game was played on March 8, 2026.
- Duke trailed Louisville 55-51 with 4:26 left in regulation.
- Delaney Thomas hit the game-tying layup with 4 seconds remaining in regulation to force overtime.
- Duke outscored Louisville 10-5 in the overtime period to win the game.
The players
Delaney Thomas
A Duke player who scored 19 points and had 9 rebounds in the game.
Taina Mair
The tournament MVP for Duke, who also scored 19 points and had 12 rebounds.
Kara Lawson
The head coach of the Duke women's basketball team, who led the Blue Devils to their second straight ACC Championship.
What’s next
Duke will now wait to see what their NCAA Tournament draw will be after winning the ACC Championship.
The takeaway
Duke's comeback victory over Louisville showcases the resilience and talent of the Blue Devils, who have now established themselves as one of the premier women's basketball programs in the country under coach Kara Lawson.
