Duke Basketball Reveals Starters for Round of 32 Battle Against Baylor
As the Duke Blue Devils prepare for their pivotal Round of 32 clash against the Baylor Bears in the NCAA Tournament, anticipation is at an all-time high. The Blue Devils are coming off a solid win in the opening round, and now they face a Baylor team that is both battle-tested and hungry for another deep March Madness run. With both teams primed for a high-stakes showdown, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has officially announced his starting lineup, which features a blend of experience and young talent, including a key decision regarding the status of freshman sensation Cooper Flagg.
Duke’s Starting Five:
1. Tyrese Proctor (PG)
Proctor, a sophomore point guard, has been one of Duke’s most consistent players throughout the season. Known for his leadership and ability to control the tempo, Proctor will be tasked with running the offense against a Baylor team that prides itself on creating turnovers and pushing the pace. His court vision and ability to distribute the ball effectively will be crucial in ensuring that Duke’s offense operates smoothly. With the tournament in full swing, Proctor will also be expected to step up as a scorer when needed, especially if the game becomes tight.
2. Jeremy Roach (SG)
A veteran guard with experience in multiple NCAA Tournaments, Roach’s role in this game is to provide scoring, stability, and veteran leadership. He’s played in several high-pressure situations and his ability to make clutch plays will be critical against Baylor’s aggressive defense. Roach has been Duke’s go-to scorer at times this season, and in this Round of 32 game, his perimeter shooting and ability to break down defenses will be essential in keeping Baylor’s defense off balance.
3. Cooper Flagg (SF)
Freshman star Cooper Flagg has been one of the most hyped recruits in recent years, and his debut season has lived up to the billing. Known for his versatile game, which includes elite defense, rebounding, and scoring ability, Flagg has become a key piece of Duke’s championship aspirations. Despite concerns over a recent injury in the opening round, Flagg will start in this game, with Duke’s medical staff monitoring his health closely. If he is able to play at full capacity, Flagg will be a matchup nightmare for Baylor’s defense, capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor.
4. Kyle Filipowski (PF)
The 7-foot sophomore forward has been the anchor of Duke’s frontcourt all season. A double-double machine, Filipowski’s ability to score inside and stretch the floor with his shooting has made him one of the most dangerous players in the NCAA. Against Baylor’s physical style of play, Filipowski will be pivotal in securing rebounds and providing a scoring threat in the paint. His presence in the post will force Baylor’s defense to collapse, potentially opening up opportunities for Duke’s shooters.
5. Mark Mitchell (C)
Mitchell, another freshman, rounds out Duke’s starting five. A versatile forward with excellent length and athleticism, Mitchell has proven to be a strong defender and a reliable finisher around the basket. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute to both ends of the floor makes him an invaluable asset for Duke in this matchup. Against Baylor, Mitchell will likely draw the responsibility of guarding some of the Bears’ more physical players, such as forward Jalen Bridges, making his defensive contributions crucial.
Key Matchups to Watch:
This matchup will come down to Duke’s ability to defend Baylor’s high-powered offense. Baylor thrives on fast breaks and three-point shooting, so it will be critical for Duke to slow down the pace and limit open looks from beyond the arc. Additionally, with Flagg’s potential impact on both ends of the floor, his health and performance will be a key storyline to watch.
Duke’s starters provide a balance of skill, size, and experience, but Baylor’s mix of speed and shooting will test them in ways they haven’t seen all season. As both teams battle for a spot in the Sweet 16, every possession will matter, and Duke’s ability to execute on both ends will determine their success in this Round of 32 matchup.
With all eyes on them, Duke is looking to make a statement, proving that their combination of freshman talent and veteran leadership is ready for the pressure of March Madness.
