As March begins, Duke vs Florida Basketball is set to be an exciting showdown. The No. 2-ranked Duke Blue Devils (25-3, 16-1 ACC) are closing in on an ACC regular-season championship, but they’ll have to manage without two key players—Maliq Brown (shoulder injury) and Tyrese Proctor (bone bruise in his left knee).
Despite these setbacks, the Duke vs Florida Basketball matchup at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Saturday (7 p.m. ET, ACC Network) presents a strong opportunity for the Blue Devils to continue their dominance. Historically, Duke holds a commanding 44-11 record against Florida State (16-12, 7-10 ACC), including wins in 24 of 26 games played at home.
Let’s dive into the key storylines, matchups, and a score prediction for this highly anticipated Duke vs Florida Basketball battle.
How Will Duke Adjust Without Tyrese Proctor?
Duke’s starting lineup has remained consistent for most of the season, posting a 20-1 record with Proctor, Kon Knueppel, Sion James, Cooper Flagg, and Khaman Maluach leading the charge. However, with Proctor sidelined, head coach Jon Scheyer will have to adjust.
There are two main options for filling Proctor’s spot:
- Caleb Foster: The sophomore started the first seven games of the season but struggled in early losses to Kentucky and Kansas. However, he has picked up his play recently, scoring in double figures in three of the last four games.
- Isaiah Evans: The freshman wing stepped in for Proctor in the second half against Miami and has been on fire, averaging 16.6 points on 66% shooting over the last three games. Given his recent hot streak, Evans might be the best bet to start.
Regardless of who gets the nod, Duke vs Florida Basketball will serve as a test for the team’s depth and ability to adjust without one of their primary ball-handlers.
Battle in the Paint: Khaman Maluach & Patrick Ngongba vs Florida State’s Frontcourt
One of the biggest factors in Duke vs Florida Basketball will be the battle down low. Both teams boast tremendous size, making interior play a crucial aspect of the game.
- Khaman Maluach (Duke): The 7-foot freshman has been solid, averaging 9.5 points and 5.5 rebounds over the last two games.
- Patrick Ngongba (Duke): The 6-foot-11 center has contributed seven points and five rebounds per game recently.
Florida State’s frontcourt will pose a challenge, even with their starting center Malique Ewin’s status uncertain after an ankle injury against UNC. However, FSU still features:
- Taylor Bol Bowen (6’10”)
- Alier Maluk (7’0”)
The Seminoles rank 14th nationally in block percentage (KenPom), meaning Duke must attack the rim aggressively and be strategic about shot selection inside.
Scoring Showdown: Kon Knueppel vs Jamir Watkins
When it comes to offensive firepower in Duke vs Florida Basketball, Kon Knueppel and Jamir Watkins are the names to watch.
- Knueppel (Duke): The 6-foot-7 sharpshooter is on fire, averaging 17.5 points on 71% shooting in his last two games.
- Watkins (Florida State): The FSU forward has been dominant, averaging 24.5 points over his last two outings while making 17 of 20 free throws.
Both players have the ability to take over a game, making this an exciting 1-on-1 scoring battle to watch.
Duke vs Florida Basketball: Score Prediction
Despite Proctor’s absence, Duke’s overall talent and depth should be more than enough to handle Florida State at home. The Blue Devils have won 12 of the last 14 matchups in this series and have been nearly unbeatable at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
Expect a strong start from Florida State, but once Duke finds its rhythm, the game should tilt in their favor. Knueppel, Flagg, and Evans will likely step up offensively, while Maluach and Ngongba hold their own in the paint.
Final Score Prediction: Duke 83, Florida State 60
With an ACC title within reach and March Madness approaching, this is a must-win game for Duke. The Duke vs Florida Basketball matchup should be another step toward solidifying their spot as a top national title contender.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting battle at Cameron!
