Duke Blue Devils Defeat Virginia Tech Hokies in Tight Conference Matchup

Ranked #4 Blue Devils hold off resilient Hokies at home in ACC showdown

Jan. 31, 2026 at 12:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The #4 ranked Duke Blue Devils defeated the Virginia Tech Hokies 78-72 in a close conference matchup at Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg, VA. Duke entered the game with a strong 19-1 record, while Virginia Tech held a 16-6 mark on the season. The Blue Devils were led by standout player Cameron Boozer's 23 points, while the Hokies were paced by Ben Hammond's 20-point effort.

Why it matters

This ACC clash featured two teams with NCAA Tournament aspirations, as Duke looks to solidify its position as an elite program while Virginia Tech aims to make a statement at home against a highly-ranked opponent. The outcome could have implications for seeding and momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.

The details

Duke jumped out to an early lead, taking advantage of its superior field goal percentage and stifling defense that forced 17 Hokies turnovers. However, Virginia Tech fought back in the second half, cutting the deficit to just four points late in the game before Duke was able to close it out at the free throw line. The Blue Devils' balanced scoring attack and ability to limit second-chance points for the Hokies proved to be the difference.

  • The game took place on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET.
  • Duke entered the game with a 19-1 record, while Virginia Tech held a 16-6 mark on the season.

The players

Cameron Boozer

A standout player for Duke, averaging 23.4 points per game this season.

Ben Hammond

The leading scorer for Virginia Tech, pouring in 20 points in the loss.

Amani Hansberry

A key contributor for the Hokies, grabbing 8 rebounds in the game.

Patrick Ngongba II

A valuable player for Duke, averaging 11.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We knew Virginia Tech would give us a tough battle at home, but our guys stepped up and made the plays we needed to come away with the win.”

— Mike Krzyzewski, Head Coach, Duke Blue Devils

“I'm proud of the fight our team showed against one of the best teams in the country. We had our chances, but Duke's experience and talent proved to be too much in the end.”

— Mike Young, Head Coach, Virginia Tech Hokies

What’s next

Duke will look to continue its strong season as it hosts North Carolina next Saturday, while Virginia Tech will try to bounce back at home against Miami.

The takeaway

This hard-fought ACC matchup demonstrated the depth and talent of the Duke program, as well as the resilience of the Virginia Tech Hokies. While the Blue Devils emerged victorious, the Hokies proved they can compete with the conference's elite teams, setting the stage for an exciting finish to the regular season.