Expert Predicts Duke Basketball to Rank Second Among ACC Teams
As the 2025–26 college basketball season approaches, experts are weighing in on the projected standings within the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Despite Duke’s strong performance in the previous season, some analysts predict the Blue Devils will finish second in the ACC, just behind their archrivals, the North Carolina Tar Heels.
In the 2024–25 season, Duke concluded with an impressive 35–4 overall record and a 19–1 mark in conference play, securing the top spot in the ACC standings. Their roster featured standout freshman Cooper Flagg, who earned All-ACC first-team honors, and a supporting cast that included Tyrese Proctor and Khaman Maluach . Despite their regular-season dominance, the Blue Devils fell short in the ACC Tournament, which they haven’t won since 2019 .
Looking ahead, the Tar Heels are poised to challenge Duke’s supremacy. North Carolina returns a seasoned lineup led by RJ Davis, who was a Wooden Award candidate, and has bolstered their roster with top-tier recruits and transfers. Their experience and depth have led some experts to give them the edge in the upcoming season.
While Duke’s incoming class remains among the nation’s best, featuring talents like Flagg and Maluach, the reliance on freshmen could pose challenges in a competitive ACC landscape. The Blue Devils’ ability to integrate new players and maintain consistency will be crucial in their quest to reclaim the top spot.
As the season unfolds, the battle between Duke and North Carolina promises to be a focal point, with both teams vying for ACC supremacy and national recognition.
